An Obligation to End High-School Drop-Outs

Aug 18, 2008 | Archives, Blog

Gail Torreano, president of AT&T Michigan, recently wrote in the Detroit Free Press about the nation’s drop-out problem, especially among African American, Hispanic, and American Indian students.

“Dropping out is not a victimless choice affecting just the person who decides to leave school,” she says. “That choice impacts each and every one of us. Studies have shown that students who are unprepared to enter college cost the economy $3.7 billion annually in lost earnings and remedial education.”

AT&T has partnered with the United Way to create a four-year, $100 million program focused on high school retention and workplace readiness. The reason? Statistics show that high school drop-outs are more likely to be jobless, poor, have health problems, or be incarcerated.

Similar partnerships are necessary in Indian Country between corporations, the tribal colleges, and schools. But the task needs to begin before high school, starting as early as elementary school. Children need to see that college is an option, and internalize the idea that they can succeed. It’s our job to start this dialog, for the seven generations.

Recent Blog Posts

Circle of Hope Winter 2025

| Winter 2025 |Circle of HopeWhy Diversity MattersGreetings, my dear friends and relatives,I want to start by expressing my deep thanks to each of you for reaching out to me, and others across the College Fund team, to share your concerns for us, as well as reminding...

Rural America Loses If We Lose Tribal Colleges

Rural America Loses If We Lose Tribal Colleges

Cheryl Crazy Bull warns that federal funding cuts threaten Tribal Colleges and Universities, which provide affordable, community-focused education for Native and rural students. She highlights their impact on workforce development, economic growth, and student success, urging continued investment to secure their future.