Schools that implement a multi-tiered system of supports have effective tools to help academically struggling students graduate on time. Research confirms that MTSS interventions reduce negative behavior. Examples include frequently skipping school or arriving late, being disruptive during school hours, and dropping out. Students who don’t graduate on time are significantly less likely to ever receive a high school diploma.
Relevant Statistics
A startling number of U.S. high school students drop out before graduation. As of 2018, the graduation rate reached an all-time high of about 85 percent. This includes those who completed work for their diploma later than originally expected.
However, that still leaves a large number of young men and women not completing their high school education. Dropout rates are highest for black and Hispanic students, although their graduation rates have increased significantly since 2011.
Reasons for Leaving
The most common reason for leaving before completing all the required work is failing too many classes. Intervention with individualized instruction can help prevent this. Another common reason is to become a caregiver. Usually, this is due to having a baby, but some teenagers have to become full-time caregivers for other family members while adults who can work full-time do so.
Consequences
Non-graduates are much more likely to have trouble finding employment. They earn substantially less money on average. They are more likely to get into legal trouble and have serious health problems. It becomes clear why MTSS interventions for at-risk students are so important. Information on the multi-tiered system is provided at EmpowerU.
