Early identification: Strategies for preventing Latino students from dropping out of high school

The purpose of this qualitative case study was to explore the early indicators that identify Latino students who may drop out of high school and to suggest strategies for a high school to implement to prevent such students from leaving school. The data collection took place over a three-month period in natural settings, familiar, and comfortable for the participants. Ten participants including students, teachers, administrators, parents, and community members participated in this qualitative study. While poor attendance remained a strong indicator of a student's proclivity for dropping out, several other important signs emerged as predictors including academic ability, lack of engagement, retention, caretaking responsibilities, economic status, mental health issues, discipline problems, lack of acceptance socially, substance abuse, and family involvement. The fieldwork and research literature suggested that the dropout indicators crossed racial, ethnic, social, and economic lines. Strategies including the design of a relevant curriculum were proposed to intervene and engage students displaying the signs of an imminent dropping out of school.