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Icanclickit September 8, 2008

Is dropping out the only way?

Icanclickit
Could dropping out be the most effective way to really learn?
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Parent Answers to "Is dropping out the only way?"

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Anonymous
Anonymous September 17, 2008
One lesson most young people need to learn is humility. They need to know that they don't know everything and be open to learning from others with more experience than they have. The OP doesn't seem to have learned that lesson. Not surprising, given what I think is his young age.

However, potential employers look at someone and what they have accomplished. Dropping out is not an accomplishment. At the very least, it's seen by most as an inability to complete something, and at worst, the dropout is seen as a person with serious problems. Either way, a drop-out will have to convince potential employers that they are not a typical dropout. That's a difficult task, but not insurmountable.

What a dropout needs to do is prove they are willing to learn. They have to prove they can work with others, including superiors. They have to be willing to start at a lower level than those who may be younger but have more education. They have to be willing to be passed over for promotions if the promotion requires education they do not have. They have to be willing to make less money than someone with more education. They'll have to understand that they can be far smarter than another guy, but it doesn't matter if you don't have the piece of paper that says you have the education. They have to understand they'll probably be looked down upon for not having finished high school. That's reality.

If you want to be a boxer as a career, great. Know however, that you cannot always be a boxer, because your field requires a young and healthy body. You'll be done by about age 30. The likelihood that you'll make millions and be able to retire on them is remote. Be smart and plan for a future. If you want to be someone else's trainer or manager, then you will need to have the knowledge of business and contracts the other poster referred to. Educate yourself on this side of the business. It's smart to do so in order to protect your own money now as well as to help you qualify to do it for someone else's money in the future.

If you've dropped out of high school, that's your choice. Remember, however, to continue learning your entire life. You'll have to do on your own what you would have been guided through had you stayed in school. It is certainly doable, but you'll have obstacles that you have to overcome. You'll be able to do it if you put your mind to it, but you most definitely will have a more difficult time than if you'd stayed in school.

One more thought -- in five years, ask yourself if you would advise your own children to quit school. If your answer is no, then you'll know whether you had a good idea dropping out yourself.

Good luck.
Icanclickit
Icanclickit September 17, 2008
Ah... well you can use me as an example of someone who has dropped out and is still running strong today. I dropped out within 2 months into high school and don't regret at all because watashiwa sugoi des! I'm a little surprised my question got so popular.
sbozarth23
sbozarth23 September 16, 2008
Icanclickit,

I do not understand the phrasing of your post, do you mean is dropping out the only way to learn...a lesson of some sort?

I dropped out of high school my senior year. Even though I successfully graduated from college most high school dropouts do not. I also have my regrets, like not walking with my class and depriving my parents of that proud moment. At the time I thought I was being smart by skipping the last six months of high school and going straight to college.To this day I still wish someone would have talked me out of it.

Bottom line, dropping out does not solve problems it creates them.
AppleBottom
AppleBottom September 15, 2008
Dropping out, not a good idea for anyone.
tjlove
GreatSchools Staff tjlove September 10, 2008
I'm not sure what's going on here- but we've definitely strayed from the original question- which was a really good topic to discuss. Dropping out of high school is a real concern for many students and parents across the country.
These boards aren't the place to carry out a personal argument. I'm shutting this thread temporarily to give us all a breather.
Everyone, please take a minute to review our Community Guidelines and our Moderation Policy.

Community Guidelines: www.greatschools.net/cgi-bin/static/terms.html/CA#communityStandards

Moderation Policy:
community.greatschools.net/advice/562/Moderation-Policy-and-Posting-Guidelines--A-Guide-to-Your-Community

Check back in a day or two if you want to discuss dropping out and other alternatives to finishing high school.
You can message me offline for any questions or concerns.

Thanks!
Anonymous
Anonymous September 10, 2008
Actually, Starwww, your the one who changed the subject. You brought on a whole paragraph that was all about Rocky.
Starwww
Starwww September 9, 2008
Ok. I'll bit...
You brought up boxing.It was a subject you entered in the thread. Boxing is just a sport and nothing said here shows that the manager is the only one to sign the contracts.Being a boxer as you say you are , to get in the ring you do have to sign a contract. It not just the manager. I know for a fact that no one should sign anything if they can not read.So with all do respect, great you are a boxer, I am a business owner , dropping out for teen is not the answer.
MagnetMom
MagnetMom September 9, 2008
Hi Icanclickit, if you look to the right of this thread, you'll see "private messages." Click there, and then you'll be in the private "email" area of GreatSchools. You can discuss whatever you'd like, with whomever you like, and hopefully, everyone can do that in a civil manner.
Icanclickit
Icanclickit September 9, 2008
Ok. Please how do I do that?
MagnetMom
MagnetMom September 9, 2008
I think it's clear both posters have pretty strong opinions on this issue, so maybe it's time to take it to private messages?

I know you're both relatively new, and I'd definitely like to see you both stick around for a long time, but this thread is getting a little personal. Threads like this have a tendency to get locked, and that's hardly the outcome anyone wants to see.
Icanclickit
Icanclickit September 9, 2008
Just remember: you went off subject. Never forget either that I have no respect for anyone who thinks boxing is just about money and con artists. I know because I am a boxer.
Starwww
Starwww September 9, 2008
Our view will on this issue may never meet on common ground. I just think it not a good idea for teens, yet you have a different take and i respect that.I enjoyed exchanging views to this subject. I hope to see you again around the boards here.Have a great evening.
Icanclickit
Icanclickit September 9, 2008
Haven't you heard that the internet can be wrong? I got the information on the biography.
Starwww
Starwww September 9, 2008
This I told and I went to the site of boxing history.
It is posted their as well.
cutespz.com/rocky-marciano/default.htm
Icanclickit
Icanclickit September 9, 2008
I never said Rocky dropped out because he wanted to. I just said that he did. Also, he wasn't too "slow" for baseball, he was too short at 5'11''.
Starwww
Starwww September 9, 2008
I was informed by my brother via phone ( I had to call him) Rocky Marciano did not drop out because he just wanted too or was having a bad day. He dropped out because he violated the schools rule about players.

When Rocky was fifteen, he entered Brockton High School and made the football team. Legend has it that center Rocky once intercepted a pass and ran 60 yards with the ball to score a touchdown.
He also made the school's baseball team as a catcher, but was told he was slow and moved to right field. Shortly after, Rocky joined a church league, violating a school rule that players could not join other teams. Cut from his school's team, Rocky felt frustrated and started cutting class and later on, dropped out completely.

Icanclickit
Icanclickit September 9, 2008
Your talking about a guy who didn't even go to school. I'm pretty sure that a teen who makes it to high school can count AND read well. So a boxer who dropped out even during 9th grade probaly can still multiply, and add. Also, He can read novels and biographys. For some reason, You are still talking about con artists. It's like saying he isn't prepared to be selected for jury duty; these illegal managers are very rare in boxing.
Starwww
Starwww September 9, 2008
I sorry m but The manager still has to show he can be trusted. How will one know what is going on with there finances, if they can not count? How will one know anything if they can not read. The manager is just that a manager all final decisions are made by the fighter. So to make such decisions that are in your best interest you have to know how read the fine print. This includes knowing how to add.
Icanclickit
Icanclickit September 9, 2008
You think boxing is all about money and swindling? That's not true. A manager is the guy that signs contracts and deals with other tasks such as hiring trainers and cutman and manage their boxer. Hence the name manager. Many boxers have dropped out, like Rocky Marciano and still became all-time greats. Some fight for money, some fight to be strong, some fight for pride and honor. People fight for all kinds of reasons. Their lack of education can be another reason they fight.
Starwww
Starwww September 9, 2008
I hear you, let's take boxing for example.
Well you have to have a manager, you sign contracts, you have to file taxes and the list goes on. So reading and math is key to the boxer. I'm sure we all know what happened to " Mike Tyson" . If you do not have math skills, how would you know when the percentage of your managers take is to high? or someone pulling the wool over your eyes in that "big" contract deal?
Icanclickit
Icanclickit September 8, 2008
Yes but, while school was meant to be like a job, it obivously doesn't simulate all careers. If a teen wanted to do something that has nothing to do with reading, math, etc, then that itself can be a reason to drop out. Take boxing for example.
Starwww
Starwww September 8, 2008
Great, I like that, But I must say while learning from others is good it is not a school setting. There are risk in that. We still feel that having papers to support the training is what is needed. So if the teen wanted to try a trade then she would have to go to job corp. This way she is working on here diploma while she is learning a trade that will give her a degree or certification for that trade. Like I stated we find different avenues for different teens. We know everyone is different but our goal is to keep these teens in school.
Icanclickit
Icanclickit September 8, 2008
This is something to think about but listen, if someone where to drop out for whatever reason, they could use that time to learn from their idols or heros, family, experience or anything else. So this person drops out and let's say this person is into architecture. They can spend the time learning from people or certain classes that would teach architecture, building construction, or other similar subjects.

How about enigneering? A person could start out getting a job at a body shop, or if their uncle works some kind of garage they could offer to help out, that individual can learn from those experiences possibly more then school would have.

Depending on when someone drops out determines the time they get. However, dropping out early might not always be a good thing.

A teen should always give some time before making such a decision, because dropping out is almost like making a commitment. You are telling people that you don't need or will be better off without school. If that teen is right then they will have made the right decision. If they are wrong then it's like a jolt counter punch from life. They thought they where right and life just showed how insignificant they really are. 'Tis why people are careful about such a gamble.
Starwww
Starwww September 8, 2008
Of course, how can dropping out for our teens be effective? What are they learning?
Icanclickit
Icanclickit September 8, 2008
Are you asking me?
Starwww
Starwww September 8, 2008
I hear you , I do. But in my field and what we do this is not something we promote to teens that feel the only way is to drop out . We look at all options this includes alternative schools and we try to find solutions to help 13,14,15 and 16 year old moms to stay in school ,so with that said staying in school benefits not only them but their children as well. No harm done I do hear you . Its just I feel different about highschool settings.What is there to learn about dropping out to these teen?
Icanclickit
Icanclickit September 8, 2008
"Hard work doesn't always bring in a reward"

I don't suggest that just anyone should drop out. I just think that people who don't like the high school, say, someone who doesn't like the school system or otherwise, could find a life better off without it (Note the "could" part). Is dropping out the only way? Isn't tomorrow the only way to go?

"Skip the commercial". It's just that your other post sounded almost like an advertisment
Starwww
Starwww September 8, 2008
Skip the commercial ? ( What is this?)

You stated you would suggest dropping out to anyone, we do not suggest it. How can one wish not to be a part of high-school? It is fantastic, a once in a life time adventure. Our job is to encourage them while it may have worked for you and I hope it did . Your question was " Is dropping out the only way out "? My answers may not have been what you wanted to hear, but remember we all have different views .
Icanclickit
Icanclickit September 8, 2008
Skip the commercial. I, myself have seen a lot of things people have not, so what? Speaking more seriously, I would suggest dropping out to anyone who does not wish to be a part of (high) school. That is what dropping out is all about. I felt this was important to mention at least.

Remember: there is always a way out
Starwww
Starwww September 8, 2008
My is answers here on this subject is based on seeing so many teens & teen parents opt out for several reasons. I own a battered women and children shelter and a assisted living for teen moms. To see what we have seen you have to be there. Many of them feel that dropping out is a good thing the only choice they have and never go back not even for a " ged" for what ever their reasons as teens & teen parents it is never a good thing. We have heard the stories and most of them are the same. I can not get along with my teachers, I can not make it to first period class, I do not have a sitter the stories go on. So speaking as one who has heard it all of why I had or want to leave school. Our efforts is to assist these teens and in our efforts as a business owner who has several ties in a network of business owners who will assist with employment & scholarships for the teens, in our assisted living for single teen moms we try to encourage them to stay in school.
Icanclickit
Icanclickit September 8, 2008
What's your source? I saw some holes in your so-called "answer". I didn't drop out for any of those reasons yet I could never stand being in high school. What about the teenagers who cannot deal with the pressure of not just their teachers, homework and studies, but other teens as well. What about those who just cannot cooperatete with their peers yet do incredible work? What are the alternatives other than high school and why are some so more effective?
Starwww
Starwww September 8, 2008
First, let’s consider what a GED really is. GED is mistakenly thought to be an equivalency diploma by many people. In fact, it is not an equivalent. GED stands for General Education Development. It is a certificate issued to those who pass the exam, showing that they have at least a basic ability level.

History has it that, the GED was implemented during World War II. It was meant to be an opportunity for veterans whose service prevented them from completing high school. In 1947, New York offered the GED to civilians. By 1973, 49 states gave the opportunity for those who, for various reasons, were unable or unwilling to complete high school.


While a GED is not seen, statistically, as an equivalent to a high school diploma, it does open doors for its recipients that are closed to high school drop outs. For one thing, 95% of American employers accept GED recipients, often on the same terms as those with high school diplomas. Additionally, 90% of colleges and universities recognize the GED.


So if most employers and colleges do recognize a GED, why is it that the statistics are so much more favorable to earners of traditional high school diplomas?
The reason may not lie in the inferiority of the GED certification, but in the commonalities among the recipients. People who opt for GED’s are usually people who had trouble in school, often people who had already dropped out, or those who have little desire or hope to finish.

These troubles may include poor performance in school, lack of discipline or effort, undiagnosed learning disabilities, a dislike for their educational environment, boredom with traditional learning models, teen pregnancy, lack of parental support, or drug and alcohol addictions.

In other words, GED recipients in general were not successful students who were likely to achieve a traditional high school diploma.

In this light, a GED is a step in a positive direction, but not a solution in itself to the problems that led to it. If the obstacles that prevented an individual from obtaining a high school diploma are not overcome, then those problems will continue to impede the person’s progress. It is not the GED itself that lowers a person’s chances for success, but that the people who obtain GED’s are generally people who had a lower chance of success to begin with.


No doubt, there are high school graduates who have had similar obstacles. But the difference is that these people were able to overcome them before it was too late. As the statistics show, they are reaping the rewards for their hard work, dedication and perseverance, both during and, most likely, after graduating high school.

But in the “real world,” is the high school diploma itself really superior to the GED certificate? In fact, yes; but, surprisingly, not by much.

For the GED recipient, success will depend upon the individual and their ability to overcome the problems that prevented them from finishing high school. The GED itself is only a slight handicap that, with effort and perseverance, can be overcome completely.

For example, if a GED recipient manages to obtain an Associates Degree, or a certification from a trade school, they will have leveled the playing field. They will have an equal chance of getting into other schools, obtaining higher degrees, or securing positions and salaries comparable to that of a high school graduate with an Associates degree.

In essence, a GED itself is not a huge obstacle to overcome; it is the ability, performance and commitment of the individual that will, in the long run, determine one’s success in life.

This does not devalue a high school diploma; the experience and education obtained by one who has completed high school is an invaluable asset to a one’s personal growth. If a high school diploma is a possibility, one should strive for it. Taking a direct route to success whenever possible is quicker and easier than taking a detour.


GED recipients may never compare well statistically to high school graduates, in that higher earning potential and better career opportunities are often directly linked to the level of education one obtains. Since GED recipients are people who initially had problems in completing a traditional education, chances are that continuing their education may not be the beneficial, or even the preferred, path to take. But happiness and fulfillment is not something quite as easily measured by the statistics.

However, success is possible for both high school graduates and GED recipients. Some people may start on the right track, while others will have to come to it when they are ready. As long as a person has the drive and determination to succeed, having either a GED or a high school diploma will help them along the way.


Icanclickit
Icanclickit September 8, 2008
I mean to drop out and get a GED or something. If you quit school, it can give a lot of time to focus on what you really want out of life. I dropped out of high school 2 months into it and I don't regret it at all because I could get a GED.
tjlove
GreatSchools Staff tjlove September 8, 2008
To really learn... what? It would be great to have more details on what your asking. I have a younger sister who dropped out of high school her last semester of her senior year and now, at 27 you can bet she's kicking herself in the head. I would encourage whoever is considering dropping out to reconsider. There are other avenues for high school students that are having a hard time in the classroom. From online courses to alternative schools, look into all your options before making that decision.
Icanclickit
Icanclickit September 8, 2008
I'm thinking mostly about the GED because that is how I got my education. So what do you think about GED? Anyone?

Thanks for the ideas and comments
Starwww
Starwww September 8, 2008
No.. What lesson could anyone learn from dropping out?

We need to remember that adolescents need their parents not only to set appropriate expectations and boundaries, but also to advocate for them.

Many teens experience a time when keeping up with school work is difficult. These periods may last several weeks and may include social problems as well as a slide in academic performance.

Yet research suggests that problems are more likely to occur during a transitional year, such as moving from elementary to middle school, or middle school to high school.Some adolescents are able to get through this time with minimal assistance from their parents or teachers. It may be enough for a parent to be available simply to listen and suggest coping strategies, provide a supportive home environment, and encourage the child's participation in school activities.

However, when the difficulties last longer than a single grading period, or are linked to a long-term pattern of poor school performance or behavior problems, parents and teachers need to intervene.


Parents -- and teachers -- can assist by:

Making the time to listen to and try to understand the teen's fears or concerns.

Setting appropriate boundaries for behavior that are consistently enforced .

Encouraging the teen to participate in one or more school activities .

Attending school functions, sports, and plays .

Meeting as a team, including parents, teachers, and school counselor, asking how they can support the teen's learning environment, and sharing their expectations for the child's future.

Arranging tutoring or study group support for the teen from the school or the community through organizations such as the local YMCA or a local college or university .

Providing a supportive home and school environment that clearly values education .

Helping the teen think about career options by arranging for visits to local companies and colleges, picking up information on careers and courses, and encouraging an internship or career-oriented part-time job .

Encouraging the teen to volunteer in the community or to participate in community groups such as the YMCA, Scouting, 4-H, religious organizations, or other service-oriented groups to provide an out-of-school support system .

Emphasizing the importance of study skills, hard work, and follow-through .

We can not give up as parents.
Understanding the factors that may put an adolescent at-risk for academic failure will help parents determine if their teen is in need of extra support. Above all, parents need to persevere. The teen years do pass, and most adolescents survive them, in spite of bumps along the way.

Being aware of common problems we can explain to our children that it is important to stay in school and if we need it we as parents can not be afraid to ask for help before a difficult time develops into a more serious situation. So again I say no dropping out is not an effective way of learning for anyone.





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