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New dropout research reveals striking costs to Texas economyPress release from United Ways of TexasNew dropout research reveals striking costs to Texas economy AUSTIN, Texas- August 24, 2009- On a day where many children and their families are gearing up for a new school year, a number of Texas students will not be taking steps through the school halls - those who have dropped out of school. A recently released report commissioned by United Ways of Texas and authored by The Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University shines new light on the economic implications of Texas’ dropout crisis. The report, titled The ABCD’s of Texas Education: Assessing the Benefits and Costs of Reducing the Dropout Rate, found that based on Texas’ dropout rate, students that should graduate with the class of 2012 but drop out before graduation will cost Texas up to $9.6 billion over their lifetime. The figure is based on cost projections for lost wages and taxes, increased welfare payments and incarceration costs. The report describes the economic implications of Texas’ dropout situation as “striking and worrisome”. “The 9.6 billion dollar dropout price tag is astounding, but unfortunately it is not just a one-time cost to our state,” said Karen R. Johnson, President and CEO of United Ways of Texas. “A new cohort of students drops out each year, compounding the figure year after year and costing our state even more down the road.” The report also found that because Texas will have fewer students in its education system, dropouts will actually save the state up to $1.1 billion in education-related costs each year. However, the report noted that despite the significant investment to keep these students in school, Texas would see a substantial long-term monetary gain from educating students who otherwise would have dropped out of school. “We recognize that many lawmakers, teachers, administrators, organizations, parents and others are doing all they can to increase the numbers of students who graduate from high school,” said Johnson. “However, this report further indicates that in order to ensure Texas’ future economic health, our state has a lot of work still left to do. Most importantly, Texans need good information about the real cost of our inability to address the dropout crisis.” For more information about the report, please contact Stephanie Guidry at stephanie.guidry@uwtexas.org or (512) 372-9209. ### |
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