Ep 20. Dropout Nation

In "Dropout Nation," the twentieth episode of the thirtieth season of the documentary series Frontline, the program looks in-depth at the issue of high school graduation rates and the growing problem of students dropping out of school. The show investigates the various factors that lead to high dropout rates, including poverty, lack of resources, disengaged students, and a struggling education system.

The episode begins with a look at the statistics surrounding high school graduation rates in the United States. While the overall graduation rate has improved in recent years, with more than 84 percent of students graduating on time, there are still stark disparities between different racial and ethnic groups, as well as between students from different socioeconomic backgrounds. Frontline highlights the fact that low-income students are four times more likely to drop out of school than their more affluent peers.

From there, the show delves into the complex web of factors that contribute to high dropout rates. One major issue is poverty, which can affect a student's ability to succeed in school in countless ways. Frontline visits a high school in Los Angeles where more than 90 percent of the students come from low-income families and where gang violence and other challenges are rampant. Teachers at the school describe the many hurdles their students face and the creative ways they try to keep them engaged and motivated.

Another issue highlighted by the episode is the fact that many students who struggle academically feel disconnected from their schools. Frontline speaks with a number of young people who have dropped out or who are at risk of dropping out, and many of them describe feeling like they don't belong in the school environment. Some point to the lack of diversity among teachers and staff, while others say that the academic expectations are too low or that they aren't getting the support they need.

In addition to poverty and disconnection, the episode also examines other factors that can lead to high dropout rates, such as inadequate resources and support for students with disabilities, behavioral problems, or other challenges. Frontline speaks with educators, parents, and students across the country to better understand these issues and to explore potential solutions.

Throughout the episode, the program also highlights various initiatives and programs aimed at reducing dropout rates and improving outcomes for all students. Some schools are experimenting with innovative approaches like project-based learning or personalized instruction to make school more engaging and relevant for students. Others are focusing on social-emotional learning, which teaches soft skills like communication and empathy in addition to traditional academic subjects.

Overall, "Dropout Nation" is a deeply informative and thought-provoking episode of Frontline that sheds much-needed light on a critical issue facing our education system today. By exploring the many complex factors that contribute to high dropout rates and by showcasing innovative solutions and strategies, the show provides important insights into how we can better support our students and help them succeed.