Examining the Relationship Between After-School Persistence and an Early Warning Index Associated With Dropout

• In Event: Supporting and Strengthening After-School Programs

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to conduct a longitudinal examination of the relationship between sustained afterschool participation and a district’s Early Warning Index associated with school dropout in a large urban school district. The study included 64,351 students participating between 2000-2001 and the 2011-2012 school years. Data were subjected to hierarchical linear modeling to determine individual student academic growth trajectories over time and the relationship to afterschool participation. Results indicate that sustained yearly participation and higher days per year participation increase the likelihood that students stay on a positive academic trajectory.

Authors

• Teresa C. King

• Miguel Garcia, Fort Worth Independent School District