Our students can learn and achieve their goals with the appropriate guidance and tools.

The decision made by a middle or high school student to drop out of school has a profound impact on the family. Some students believe that they have to drop out to work and support other family members. Some students experience conflict within their families when they drop out of school. Ombudsman recognizes the important role of families in a student’s life and includes them in its dropout prevention and recovery program.

Families Who Benefit
Families play an important role in a student’s decision to drop out of school, so Ombudsman includes families in the process to help at-risk middle and high school students graduate. No matter what kind of family structure surrounds a student—single parent household, teen pregnancy, grandparent head of household—Ombudsman works with each situation to support students in their quest to graduate. Parents, grandparents and guardians want their children and grandchildren to be successful. Ombudsman works to incorporate family encouragement into its instruction and support.

Unfortunately, some students are not supported by their families and must work independently to achieve their goals. Ombudsman provides those students with the emotional and social support they need to succeed, as well.

Staying Involved
Upon school referral or enrollment, students and their families attend intake appointments so they all can learn what an alternative education program can do for them and what is required throughout the program. Involving parents and students in this decision-making process is the first step toward changing old patterns. Ombudsman instructors work to create an environment of success by working closely with school administrators and family members.

Family Challenges
Statistics show that 22 percent of students who drop out of school do so because they become parents themselves. Teen mothers and fathers often drop out of school to work and to care for their children. Ombudsman offers an alternative education program for pregnant teens and young parents that helps them stay in school and graduate. A flexible schedule and alternative learning environment allow pregnant teens and young parents to work at their own pace and continue their education.