In his book “The Talk (about money),” financial expert Dale Alexander provides valuable insights on how young people can effectively manage their finances. One aspect of education that has long been acknowledged is that girls tend to excel academically and navigate the challenges of adolescence more successfully than boys. Girls are often more focused, taking their studies and future prospects seriously, particularly during their teenage years. While public schools offer the same extracurricular activities, classes, and opportunities to both boys and girls, the latter are more likely to graduate high school on time and pursue higher education.
According to a report by Brookings, national data on high school graduation rates by gender is not available. However, the research organization collected state-by-state data from Departments of Education, confirming that girls have a higher likelihood of graduating than boys. Although the COVID-19 pandemic may have influenced graduation dates for both genders, the trend remains consistent.
A recent investigation by Chalkbeat and the Toni Stabile Center for Investigative Journalism accused New York City of manipulating high school graduation rates by lowering passing standards. Students who were failing classes were allegedly pushed through to the next grade level without meeting the original standards. These practices have raised concerns about the integrity of graduation rates.
The reasons behind students choosing to drop out of high school prematurely are not fully understood, but teachers speculate that factors such as home life and mental health may play a role. Poor attendance is often an indicator that a student is considering dropping out. Additionally, boys are more likely to opt for trade schools or vocational programs that offer specific occupational training, such as carpentry, which does not require a high school education.
While the exact reasons for boys postponing graduation or quitting education altogether are unclear, teachers and administrators suggest that low self-efficacy and a lack of support and resources can contribute to their struggles. Overcoming academic challenges becomes harder when students lack access to support networks and cannot visualize a path to success.
Although schools provide programs and counselors to assist struggling students, the importance of parental guidance cannot be overstated. The values and emphasis on education within a student’s family greatly impact their academic success. If the message conveyed at home does not align with what is taught in the classroom, it becomes challenging for teachers to make a lasting impact.
Financial considerations also pose a significant barrier to pursuing higher education. Some parents cannot afford to support their child’s college aspirations, hindering their ability to attend. Conversely, there are parents who prioritize their children entering the workforce early, disregarding the importance of a college education.
While high school dropouts can still achieve success, it is essential to address the underlying factors that contribute to disparities in graduation rates between boys and girls. By providing adequate support, resources, and parental guidance, educators can help students overcome challenges and make informed decisions about their future.
