Athletic programs a predictive variable: A study of dropout rates in CTA schools

The purpose of this quantitative study is to describe the movement of dropout rates when athletic programs are removed from career and technical academy (CTA) schools. Data collected from two CTA schools in the southwestern region of the United States permitted a glance at extracurricular participation and on whether or not athletic programs affect the dropout rate. The entire student bodies of both schools were compared to see if there were any significant impact with regard to the variables of attendance, grade point average and extracurricular activity participation upon the dropout rate. These variables have been identified as predictor variables for school dropout. Archival data was collected at each school site. The results of this quantitative study showed that there was a significant difference between career and technical high schools with regard to the grade point average and extracurricular activity, higher dropouts at CTA schools with athletic programs, and no difference in attendance. Based on these findings, one recommended future study includes a tutoring program for career and technical academy school with athletic programs to help provide academic support for athletes. Finally, based on the conclusions, one implication would be that CTA schools may not need to provide athletic programs because a high participation rate in career and technical activities that may derail student academic progress. Therefore, the number of programs and the participation rates should be monitored to help student time management within the CTA school environment and to keep the lower dropout rate at these types of schools.