DETROIT - The United Way of Southeastern Michigan has launched a $10 million initiative to reduce high school dropout rates for the Detroit-area, according to The Detroit News.
The fund will support efforts in high schools with dropout rates of 40 percent or higher. Schools in Detroit, Hazel Park, Lincoln Park, Melvindale, Allen Park, Pontiac, River Rouge, Ecorse, Redford, Hamtramck and Eastpointe will participate. It was triggered by a $1 million donation from AT&T Michigan, and the fund has already reached $4 million.
"We have an urgent need in Michigan, and this shows foresight and community planning along with philanthropic organizations," Detroit Superintendent Connie Calloway told The News. "We've been working together for 13 months and I think this is a magnificent opportunity."
SOURCE:
The Detroit News, "United Way plans $10M initiative to curb Detroit-area
dropout rates," Aug. 6, 2008
FURTHER READING:
Michigan Education Digest, "Michigan ranks last in graduating black males,"
July 29, 2008
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