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More Is Better: Raising Expectations for Students at Risk

NCJ Number
150105
Journal
Middle School Journal Dated: (May 1993) Pages: 13-18
Author(s)
R Taylor; J Reeves
Date Published
1993
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This program at Meadowbrook Middle School in Orlando, Florida, was designed for students academically at risk of dropping out of school.
Abstract
Ninety 7th grade students were identified who possessed at least two of the following characteristics of potential dropouts: high absenteeism, excessive number of discipline referrals, 2 or more years older than their classmates, poor grades, low stanine scores on standardized tests, and parents who did not complete high school. Forty-five students were assigned randomly to each of three teams serving the 7th grade population, and the remaining 45 students were assigned to an experimental team known as the Dragons. Teachers were then specially selected to provide the traditional 7th grade curriculum in a nontraditional way. An atmosphere of academic challenge existed in Dragon classrooms. Students were expected to participate at all times, and their names were constantly called out to provide answers to a wide range of questions. Teachers came to know Dragon students personally, demanded that students meet high standards, and taught students to act responsibly. As a result, Dragon students experienced quantifiable improvements in grades, attendance, and attitudes toward school. 4 references and 1 table