An examination of high school students' perceptions concerning the influence of selected academic and personal factors during early adolescence on later school success

The problem. The purpose of this study is to examine high school seniors' perceptions of academic and personal factors as early adolescents, specifically seventh graders, as it relates to academic success.; Method. One hundred thirty-eight high school students from three different groups; 40 continuation high school graduates, 27 continuation high school non-graduates and 71 traditional high school graduates were given an online survey. The 31 survey questions relating to selected academic and personal factors were designed to reveal or dispute reliable differences in the perception of continuation high school graduates, continuation high school non-graduates and traditional high school graduates.; Results. The study found statistically significant differences among continuation high school graduates, continuation high school non-graduates and traditional high school graduates, perceptions in the factors of (p. < .05) academic performance, involvement in extracurricular activities and students' enjoyment of school. The study also found statistically significant differences in the factors of (p. < .01) school behavior, teachers liking students, and feeling safe at school. The study also found differences in the factors of (p. < .001) daily attendance, academic support at home, value placed on education at home, relationships with family members, interest in attending an alternative educational program in 7th grade, and the opportunity to attend an alternative education program in 7th grade providing an opportunity to obtain academic success at a traditional high school.; The study found a significant relationship between perceived parent involvement in a student's education during 7th grade and their academic success in a traditional high school setting. The study also revealed continuation high school students wished they had an opportunity to attend an alternative program in 7th grade possibly providing them a chance at academic success at their traditional high school.