Study Shows Potential Impact of Dropout Rate
A recent study on the Texas dropout rate and its impact predicts that the class of 2012 will have a dropout rate between 12.2 and 22.2 percent or between 40,519 and 73,692 students statewide. The study, published by the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University, estimates that these dropouts will cost the state between $5.4 billion and $9.6 billion in lost wages and taxes, increased welfare payments and incarceration costs. As children grow, United Way is there to support their development so they can be successful in school and in life. Here’s what we’re doing to combat the dropout rate:
Reducing the high school dropout rate is critical to the future of our community. Through out-of-school programs, child care, mentoring, after-school activities and more, United Way is giving our children and youth a better chance at success, and the opportunity to be all they can be. That means a better future for them—and a better community overall. At United Way, we believe that every child deserves a chance to thrive. Last year, we laid the foundation for more than half a million young people to reach their full potential. It’s another way we do something about it in Houston. High School Dropout Report Key Findings |
Did you know that dropouts from the class 2012 could cost the state of Texas up to $9.6 billion over their lifetime? That amount would be enough to cover $6,585 annual tuition at a four-year public university for about 1.5 million students.