Low expectations from teachers, an absence of parental involvement and irregular access to a home computer contribute to high dropout rates and school disengagement. According to surveys, disconnection at home and in school feeds a significant achievement gap.
States shooting for the 90 percent goal must focus on improving the lives of low-income students and those with disabilities, according to the report; which made state policy recommendations, including a need to foster college/career readiness - by perhaps offering financial incentives to "recover" dropouts, like Texas' policy.
