Bozeman, Montana March 25, 2011 - This is a startling statistic for our nation. Even more alarming is that here in Montana, an estimated 3,200 youth dropped out from the class of 2010. Dropping out of high school has significant repercussions not only for these students, but for our local economy as well.
A new study from the Alliance for Excellent Education (the Alliance) reveals that reducing the number of Montana dropouts in half would result in tremendous economic benefits for our state. Below are contributions that 1600 “new graduates” would likely make to Montana's economy:
The Alliance, America's Promise and State Farm have been working to put an end to the drop out crisis in America. Now they are announcing a public awareness campaign titled “26 seconds” designed to use interests like music, sports and video to engage youth. This campaign will provide an online venue for youth to express feelings on the issue and creatively share their thoughts and talents while encouraging their peers to make graduation a priority. The program's tagline “BMOR” underscores this call to action.
In addition, the State Farm Companies Foundation announced a scholarship program. 26 scholarships will go to students who are typically not eligible for many traditional scholarship programs. Students will be able to use the two-year scholarship totaling $5,000, to help fund college, university, technical or vocational school attendance. Scholarship program information and eligibility guidelines will soon be available exclusively via the 26 seconds website.
For more detail on the Alliance's economic study visit: www.all4ed.org/publication_material/EconStates
For more information about the 26 seconds campaign visit: www.26seconds.com
Daniel Losk, Public Affairs Specialists, (253) 912-6457
State Farm insures more cars and homes than any other insurer in the U.S. State Farm's 17,700 agents and more than 67,000 employees serve 81 million policies and accounts - 79 million auto, fire, life and health policies in the United States and Canada, and nearly 2 million bank accounts. State Farm is ranked No. 34 on the Fortune 500 list of largest companies. For more information, please visit www.statefarm.com®
America's Promise Alliance is the nation's largest partnership organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and youth by raising awareness, supporting communities, and engaging in nonpartisan advocacy. Through our Grad Nation campaign, we harness the collective power of our partner network to mobilize Americans to end the high school dropout crisis and prepare young people for college and the 21st century workforce. Building on the legacy of our Founding Chairman General Colin Powell, the Alliance believes the success of our young people is grounded in the Five Promises—caring adults; safe places; a healthy start; an effective education; and opportunities to help others. For more information about America's Promise Alliance, visit www.americaspromise.org.
The Alliance for Excellent Education is a Washington, DC-based policy, research and advocacy organization that works to make every child a high school graduate who is prepared for postsecondary education and success in life. For information about the Alliance, please visit www.all4ed.org.
