Family and Community Engagement

This study was conducted as part of a comprehensive 5-year national evaluation of Communities in Schools (CIS). Using a quasi-experimental design this study intended to examine the effects of CIS on graduation and dropout rates. The sample included 123 high schools matched to non-CIS schools within the same state. Results indicated that initiatives that aim to prevent student dropout by encouraging collaboration between schools and their communities can keep students on track to graduation.

This report from Northwestern University summarizes findings from a randomized controlled trial study of After School Matters (ASM), a program which offers paid apprenticeship-type experiences in a wide array of areas, such as technology, the arts, and sports. Apprenticeships were located across 10 Chicago public high schools. Youth in the treatment group reported significantly higher self-regulation and significantly fewer problem behaviors than youth in the control group. The program did not impact academic outcomes.

This report from Policy Studies Associates, Inc., describes program implementation and youth experiences in programs for high school youth delivered through the Out-of-School Time Programs for Youth (OST) initiative of the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD). Across all OST high school programs, academic enhancement activities and recreational activities were most commonly offered. Programs also provided opportunities for youth to learn about careers and college, participate in internships, and gain understanding of both their local and global communities.

This report sponsored by the College Board identifies the research-based factors that contribute either to the persistence or to the attrition of young men of color within the education system. The author synthesizes the literature in context of the communities to find connections and intersections in the literature for each of these racial/ethnic groups.

This 2011 National Center for Education Statistics Congressionally-mandated report covers all aspects of education in America, with 50 indicators that include findings on enrollment trends, demographics, and outcomes. This report also features a closer look at postsecondary education by institution level and status (public, private not-for-profit, or private for-profit), describes the current state of postsecondary education, and how it has been changing in recent decades.

This report from the Coalition for Community Schools discusses how eight high schools across the country are decreasing dropout rates as community schools. The author examines how these schools have been increasing achievement and preparing students for careers, college and life through focused leadership, robust partnerships, and critical programs and services. Case studies on each of the schools are included, highlighting background, programs and services, partnerships, leadership, and results.

This is a paper and pencil version of the online self-assessment tool.

The Eight Elements of High School Improvement framework provides a lens for mapping school, district, and state high school improvement efforts. This framework, updated from the original July 2008 version, incorporates new language and ideas from the U.S. Department of Education’s current education reform priorities.

This synthesis from American Youth Policy Forum identifies, summarizes, and analyzes research evaluations of school and youth programs, focusing on those that show gains for minority youth across a broad range of academic achievement outcomes from early childhood through advanced postsecondary study. Recommendations on how to raise the minority academic achievement are also provided for researchers, practitioners, families, community members, and students.

This practice-based review from the National Secondary Transition Technical Assistance Center provides a summary of research that examines the impact of transition planning/coordinating interventions on the transition and transition-related outcomes of high school aged students with disabilities. Results provide support for the use of student planning and student development interventions.