A Bridge to Graduation for At-Risk Latino Males: A Case Study

Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 325 Chestnut Street Suite 800, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Fax: 215-625-2940; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals

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Case Studies; At Risk Students; Males; Hispanic American Students; Dropout Prevention; School Holding Power; Academic Persistence; Mixed Methods Research; Program Effectiveness; Grade Point Average; Student Participation; Academic Aspiration; Occupational Aspiration; High School Students; Student Surveys; Interviews; Student Characteristics; Academic Achievement; Student Behavior; Student Attitudes; Attitude Change; Affective Behavior; Participant Satisfaction; Program Evaluation

10.1080/10824669.2014.977104

1082-4669

Changing demographics, low Latino graduation rates, and changes to education funding--nationally and locally--challenge society to develop innovative strategies to navigate transformations affecting public education. This article presents findings from a collaborative community-engaged evaluation of a dropout prevention program for at-risk male Latino students. Our mixed-methods evaluation finds that the program has had a positive overall impact on its participants. In particular, program participation was associated with an overall rise in grade point averages, fewer failing grades, and a higher probability of graduation, compared to nonparticipants. With respect to behavioral changes, attendance was not improved over the period of program involvement; however, the number of behavioral referrals decreased dramatically. In addition, students and staff members reported that the program enhanced the students' academic and career attitudes and aspirations. This work reveals the value of innovative programs and targeted interventions outside the classroom for at-risk students.

As Provided

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2014

EJ1047638