Growing Pains

While the overall dropout rate in Denver, Colorado had reached a whopping 8.5, not including alternative schools, DPS has been making positive changes to change the trend (0.3%) increase since 2004. The question is exactly why the students are not responding to the same teaching methods that have worked for decades. In 2006, the overall dropout rate in Colorado reached 4.5%, the highest since 2003. At Bruce Randolph school (6-10) the dropout rate is one of the highest in the state at 6.9% in 2006-2007. After interviewing several students, the indication is a lack of readiness to learn, coupled with a diminishing enthusiasm about school activities, and lack of resources directing students toward practical trade professions.
Omar, grade 7, Dawon, grade 7 and Carol, grade 8 are three students attending the school. None of them had any idea about the schools dropout rate or the name of the school mascot. Carol described the school environment as ‘loud’ and her peers as ‘obnoxious’, but all three students agreed the teachers were strict and passionate about their jobs. Although unable to obtain an interview from the staff members, the students agreed they pushed them for success and were very interactive and personally engaging.
While the problems in the Denver public School system (pertaining to educational standards) are being addressed, the main problem lies with the students’ lack of motivation, and foresight to understand the importance of scholastics. At home is where it starts. When asked about his parents’ involvement in his school activities, Dawon said they are involved, but rarely check his homework or attend school conferences. The school system cannot repair the damage at home. Unfortunately the problem continues as more teens are having children, unprepared to nurture them into responsible behavior and the solution is far in the future.