May 1999

BACKGROUND: Recognizing that dropout prevention should start before high school, Astoria Middle School wanted to explore after-school programs and student incentives to keep students "hooked" on going to school. Using existing resources and student fund-raising proceeds, they started three programs last year:

EXTENDED SCHOOL DAY: The school surveyed students to identify interests and established eight clubs in drama, radio, newspaper, technology, yearbook, computers, art and French. The TAG parents group agreed to spend $2,500 for the clubs, and also agreed they not be limited to TAG students. Teacher/advisors each get $500 to advise the clubs; 120 students are involved (total student body: 580).

AFTER SCHOOL TUTORING: Using state "level 7" grants for violence prevention/at-risk youth, Astoria Middle School began a drop-in after school tutoring center for students and parents. Although the average visit per night is 4 students, they’ve often seen 18 students come in for homework help

"YES" STUDENT INCENTIVE: Based on the Youth Excelling In School model, which Lane and staff picked up at a national conference, students are rewarded for meeting certain academic and behavior expectations. Every six to 8 weeks they have the opportunity the join an after-school activity, such as a dance or movie. Sometimes the incentive is an all-day recreational activity. The district pays transportation costs; the student council raised close to $3,000 to fund the program (magazine subscriptions, etc.).

"Although it’s too soon to see specific progress in academics, interest in school has definitely increased, attendance is up and referrals are down," said Principal Lane. "Our teachers are also giving back more than we’re paying them! They see the chance in kids and want to spend extra time to help after school. And, kids are beginning to set academic goals for themselves."