Project Dropout: For Minorities, Especially Hispanic Boys, Dropout Rates Are Much Higher

This is awful. You can listen to the full story here
-Patricia

BOSTON - February 24, 2009 - The Massachusetts Board of Education today takes a look at the state's graduation rate standards.

The Commissioner of Education is asking for an increase in the minimum graduation rate for each high school. Mitchell Chester's proposal would also require school districts to lower the dropout rate for minority groups.

A state Department of Education report shows that only half of Hispanic male students graduate from high school in four years.

Professor Ronald Ferguson directs the Achievement Initiative at Harvard University. He spoke to WBUR about what's causing higher drop out rates for minority students -- particularly Hispanic males.