Common Causes of Dropout in Select Secondary Schools in Batangas Province: Basis for Division-Based Dropout Reduction Program

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Dropouts have significant negative consequences for individuals and for society. Reducing the dropout rate is, therefore, a national priority and an important objective of the basic education system. Hence, considering thatthe teachers are the educational practitioners in shaping the hearts and minds of the school children, those students who are at risk of dropping out should be given immediate attention. In this study, the researcher focused on common causes of dropouts as the basis for a division-based dropout reduction program.

METHODS

The researcher used the descriptive method. Documentary analysis of the pertinent data was employed. Based on the result of Pareto analysis, 41 secondary schools from four areas of Batangas province have shown a high dropout rate. Segmentation, characterization, and SWOT analysis were utilized to develop the program in dropout reduction.

RESULTS

Seven schools have recorded high dropout cases which are all implementing units. In the segmented data of dropout rates, the highest percentage usually occurred in the first class municipalities like Lemery, Nasugbu, Sto. Tomas, San Pascual, and Balayan. Among the 12 common causes of dropout, illness ranked first followed by taking care of siblings, child labor, lack of interest and family problems respectively. Third congressional districts got the dominant number of dropouts with physical illness, with 227 out of 393 cases, since they are the most populous localities. Second congressional districts displayed the highest number of dropout in terms of taking care of siblings. They were located in areas where there were a big number of migrant-parents commonly working in an agricultural area on a part-time basis. The incident of child labor in the sugarcane plantation was mostly identified in the municipalities situated in the first congressional districts.

DISCUSSIONS

The results showed that the division must create a program, in cooperation with the LGU related to health/medical aspect, to give intervention to the illness experienced by the students. Symposia and seminar-workshops on PARDOs that would remind the teachers, parents, and stakeholders of their roles and responsibilities to the students should be prioritized. Parental involvement in their child education is effective. Students need parental support and encouragement, especially those who display a lack of interest in schooling. Besides, the division must add a program “extended time school sessions” to cater to students taking care of siblings and working just to earn a living. Moreover, the division should strengthen the Guidance program to regularly monitor the students at risk of dropping out.