About Project Positive Support

Abstract

The 9.2 attrition rate at Snyder High School is alarming. In fact, it is more than three times the state average. In 2002 alone, 117 students dropped out. Almost half of the student population at Snyder is classified in special education, and among this group only about 20% graduate. As one may imagine, student achievement is low for both special education and regular education students at Snyder High.

High school students in special education classes face difficult challenges which put them at risk for academic failure and eventual drop out. To meet this challenge, Project Special Education Positive Support is working to improve the quality of Special Education teaching at a time when unprecedented shortages are bringing teachers into schools with less preparation than before. The project also seeks to expand the pipeline of prospective special education teachers from high school, through the Community College and on to New Jersey City University. Since the percentage of minority teacher candidates at Hudson County Community College (96%) and New Jersey City University (40%) is the highest in the state (NJ Title II Report, 2002), the University is in a position that can allow them to increase the number and quality of minority teacher candidates entering the special education field.