High School Drop Out Rates
During the academic year, nearly 6,700 students drop out every day
U.S. Education's Startling Weakness
Nearly Half Never Graduate On average, only 58% of students in America’s 50 largest cities make it to commencement. Though suburban students have much higher graduation rates, overall, close to 10% of 16-24-year-olds do not have diplomas.
Lasting Effects The average income of workers without high school degrees is about $20,100—
33% less than those with diplomas earn. Dropouts also report more health problems than graduates, regardless of income.
Easy Math Increasing the high school graduation rate by just 1% would save the U.S. $1.4 billion in health care costs. Prevention is key, and methods such as mentoring and alternative schooling can help reverse the trend.