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Grand Rapids trying to get high school dropouts back in the classroom

Officials in Grand Rapids are trying to change some high school dropouts into high school graduates.
(photo by Steve Carmody/Michigan Radio)
Officials in Grand Rapids are trying to change some high school dropouts into high school graduates.

A new program launching this fall in Grand Rapids will try to help high school dropouts earn both their high school diplomas and some college credit.  The program is a joint effort of Grand Rapids Public Schools and Grand Rapids Community College. 

College president Steven Ender says they’re reaching out to 16 to 19 year olds who otherwise would have a hard time finding a future in Michigan’s economy.  

“Without a high school degree and some postsecondary credentials it’s going to be really difficult to sustain a financially sustainable lifestyle...for an individual and his or her family.”

Officials hope to enroll more than a hundred students in the program this fall.

Grand Rapids public schools has a dropout rate of 22 percent.

Steve Carmody has been a reporter for Michigan Public since 2005. Steve previously worked at public radio and television stations in Florida, Oklahoma and Kentucky, and also has extensive experience in commercial broadcasting.
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