Kelso, Robyn M.
Abstract:
This study centered on three variables—high school academic preparationprogram pathway choice, college structure choice, and college funding level—that mightaffect persistence and post-secondary success in the years following high school. Thestudy group consisted of 270 students who graduated from Eudora High School betweenthe years 2006 and 2008. The study utilized two tests: a one-way analysis of variance(ANOVA) and a chi-square test of independence.Statistically significant relationships were found between the high schoolacademic preparation program and variables tested, including the number of yearsenrolled in a post-secondary setting, graduation rates from any post-secondary setting,and two-year and four-year public institutions chosen by students. Additionally, astatistically significant relationship between high school academic preparation programchoice and graduation from any post-secondary institution within five years was found.A statistically significant relationship was not found between high school academicpreparation program and graduation rates from private post-secondary institutions.Statistically significant relationships were found between high school academicpreparation program choice and persistence and graduation in a post-secondary setting.Educational leaders at any level who are interested in ensuring post-secondary successand graduation could benefit from reviewing this study, which indicates that a morerigorous curriculum is a strong predictor of post-secondary success. Results show thatthe best choices for post-secondary success if enrolled at Eudora High School werestandards set by the Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR): Kansas Qualified Admissionsand Kansas Scholars Curriculum.