Arkansas Dropout Prevention Summit
December 17, 2008
Convener: Arkansas Department of Education
Estimated Attendance: 200
Highlights:
The Governor’s Summit for Dropout Prevention launched the Arkansas Greater Graduation Project. The Summit held West Little Rock featured Governor Mike Beebe, Arkansas Education Commissioner Dr. Ken James, and various national and local experts in the issues surrounding low graduation rates. Sixteen districts across the state attended with 7-10 cross-sector representatives, including youth, participating from each district. Key partners included AT&T, State Farm and the Arkansas Department of Education.
Summit Planning Team:
District Superintendents, representatives from the Mayor’s Office, the Gov. Office, Youth Voice, Education, Business Community, Special Ed., Elected Officials., Criminal Justice Institute of the University of Arkansas System, State Farm Insurance, Nonprofit partners and others.
Progress Since the Summit
- Each district in attendance (12 districts) were awarded a follow-up grant to host a local summit and develop a localized dropout prevention plan (funding provided by AT&T).
- Regional trainings and events took place through 2009
Contact:
Polly Davis
polly.davis@arkansas.gov (501) 683-4800