High School Dropout
The high school dropout rate not only indicates the success of a school system; it forecasts possible social and economic problems to come. The Hampton Roads dropout rate exceeds the state average and is the fourth highest among Virginia's regions.
Why is This Important?
The high school dropout rate is one measure of the success of the public elementary and secondary educational system. Moreover, because high school dropouts are at higher risk of unemployment and other social ills, dropout rates are a leading indicator of potential future problems for individuals and their communities. For example, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in February 2009 the national unemployment rate for those without a high school degree was 4.3 percentage points higher than those who had graduated from high school.
How is Hampton Roads Doing?
The Hampton Roads region's high school dropout rate (for the cohort of students that entered ninth grade four years earlier) decreased from 9.7 percent in 2009-10 to 7.5 percent in 2010-11. This rate was a bit higher than the state average (7.2%), and tied with the Southwest region for the 4th highest cohort high school dropout rate in the state. The Eastern region had the highest dropout rate at 9.3 percent; the Northern region had the lowest at 5.9 percent.
What Influences High School Dropout?
Socio-economic factors play a role in graduation and dropout rates. One of the most significant factors influencing high school dropout rates is family income. According to the U.S. Department of Education, students from low-income families are six times more likely to drop out of high school than students from high-income families.
In a 2006 report, Civic Enterprises studied the trend of falling graduation rates and higher dropout rates. They cited lack of motivation, financial troubles, poor preparation, and lack of success as common reasons some students did not complete their studies. Family income can ensure a stable financial environment. Parents and educators can exert positive influence in preparing children for success in high school, as well as helping them cope with difficulties, both personal and academic. The parents' education level is strongly correlated with a student's own academic achievement.
Data Definitions and Sources
Virginia Department of Education, Virginia Cohort Reports (updated annually in November)
See the Data Sources and Updates Calendar for a detailed list of the data resources used for indicator measures on Hampton Roads Performs.
