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) increased
from 9.3 percent in 2008-09
to 9.7 percent in 2009-10.
This rate was higher
than the state average
of 8.2 percent, and the
third highest four-year
high school dropout rate
in the state overall.
The Eastern region had
the highest rate at 12.8
percent. The Northern
region had the lowest
rate at 6.2 percent.
What Influences High School Dropout?
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.
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.
