High School Dropout Rate
Why we track this indicator
The local dropout rate is a direct consequence of multiple upstream determinants. Tracking this information provides a window into educational outcomes and signals to the overall health and well-being of children, young adults, and their families.
High School Withdrawal Data Breakdown
Status: Green
Definition: Any student not attending regular enrolled school days and does not meet graduation requirements prior to September 30th are factored into the dropout rate. By averaging together, the dropout rates from all seven school districts in Elkhart County provides the local dropout rate. The resulting percentage is compared to the state dropout rate. The difference between local and state dropout rate is represented here. Data is provided on a yearly basis by the Indiana Department of Education. This information is obtained through publicly available data.
Source: Indiana Department of Education (IDOE)
Last Updated: September 2023
Mitigating Factors: None reported
Methodology
Methodology: Using the weighted average formula we obtain the total dropout rate across Elkhart County. We then compare Elkhart County’s average to the State average.
Goal: To observe a lower dropout rate each year.
Traffic Light:
Green: at least 1% lower compared to Indiana
Gray: within +/- 1% of compared to Indiana
Red: at least 1% higher compared to Indiana
Supporting Research
High School Graduation
A high school diploma is a standard requirement for most jobs—and for higher education opportunities.
The SOURCE Health Equity Initiative
Untreated mental health issues in children are linked to academic failure, classroom behavior problems, dropping out of school, and juvenile delinquency.
Situations That Put Youth At Risk
Every aspect of children’s lives affects their ability to learn and succeed in school.
Preventing Dropout Among At-Risk Youth
Students with reading difficulties are at a four times greater risk of dropping out of school than typical readers, and students who are ELs are also at a very high risk for low literacy and school dropout.
Reconsidering Interventions for Youth at Risk of Dropping out
The different challenges students face highlight the importance of dropout interventions.
Mechanisms linking high school graduation to health disparities in young adulthood
This study examined three competing mechanisms in the link between educational attainment and health among young adults.
Related Indicators
Click to see more data trends related to High School Dropout Rate
Baugo Community Schools
Baugo Community Schools seeks “to sustain our community by improving our schools in four areas: 1). authentic student, family, and community engagement, 2). powerful teaching and learning, 3). expanded student supports, [and] 4). family and community partnerships.”
Elkhart Community Schools
Elkhart Community Schools is a district that serves approximately 13,000 students, and is known for high-quality programs, exceptional teachers, superior learning environments, and strong parental and community support.
Wa-Nee Community Schools
Wa-Nee Community Schools prepares students to be adaptable individuals with the life and educational skills necessary to become responsible and ethical citizens.
Indicators in Action
The ‘Data Action Mini Grant’ program will provide low barrier grants to collaborating partners which will help increase cross-system collaboration and facilitate the community response to needs and/or gaps identified through the Elkhart County Child Dashboard. Applicants may request up to $2,000. Two or more applicants can collaborate for collaborative action based upon one or more data indicators and increase the grant request. By leveraging the ‘Data Action Mini Grant’ program partners can have a platform that helps to inform community goals and creates a stronger sustainability platform for their programs.
For a copy of the 1-page proposal template click here or email David Wiegner.