School Dropouts
Re “State’s Graduation Rate Is Among Worst in U.S.,” June 8.
Recently released statistics revealing that nearly a third of California’s 1994 freshmen failed to graduate in 1998 are shocking and disappointing. Unfortunately, the seeds to dropping out sprout long before high school. Junior highs must do a better job of identifying and teaching their students.
In today’s high-tech world, these young people don’t realize that even a high school diploma is not sufficient to ensure a secure, decent-paying job. The diploma is just the beginning. Competition is stiff and demands on skills are strong.
Dropping out often leads to drifting, trouble and sometimes crime and time behind bars. There cannot be enough said about the importance of early intervention.
GARY TRAXLER
Oxnard
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