State's Dropout Rate Continues to Decline
Wisconsin’s dropout rate fell last year, continuing a long-term
trend. The state’s dropout rate fell from 2.68% in 1996-1997 to 2.54%
in 1997-1998. The rate has fallen since 1985.
“This news is one more example of the success of Wisconsin’s
public schools,” WEAC Executive Director Don Krahn said. “Our
schools have worked diligently to encourage students to remain in school,
where they can be prepared for productive lives and the jobs of the future.”
According to the Department of Public Instruction, 7,075 students left
school before graduation last year.
Milwaukee Public Schools’ dropout rate declined from 13.89% in 1996-1997
to 12.39% last year.
“The decline in Milwaukee’s dropout rate is encouraging news,”
Krahn said. “Efforts to keep students in school and learning are
working, but there is still more work to be done in our largest school
district.”
Krahn said WEAC is committed to helping students stay in school.
“WEAC supports alternative education programs and other initiatives
that help at-risk children continue their schooling,” he said. “Our
legislative agenda contains proposals for alternative education opportunities
that address children’s special needs in order to keep them in school.”
Posted January 15, 1999