Abstract

Although there has lately been a considerable increase in attention to the dropout problem, a substantial gap in the research literature still remains relative to rural dropouts and the unique circumstances of rural schools environment. The present study attempts to address this gap in the research by using the High School and Beyond (HS&B) data base, Sophomore class of 1980, to examine the rural dropout population. Differences between dropouts and stayers from rural schools are examined and discussed. Differences between urban, suburban, and rural dropouts relative to reasons for dropping out, post-school activities, ratings of school conditions, and educational aspirations were also investigated. The results suggest that issues of educational aspirations, student-teacher relationships, and teen pregnancy need to be addressed by those concerned about the rural dropout problem.

How to Cite:

McCaul, E., (1989) “Rural Public School Dropouts: Findings from High School and Beyond”, Journal of Research in Rural Education 6(1), 19–24.

Rights: Copyright