These programs come in many forms such as Alternative schools, after school programs, mentoring programs, and school-within-a-school programs. No matter what type of program is chosen, they are used to help at-risk students stay in school by providing them with support, relationships, attention to specific needs, developing social skills, and much more. However, I believe it is important not to wait until high school to assist these students, but instead schools should intercept them at the middle school levels. Because of the volatile nature of middle school students, schools should begin to develop and implement programs to assist these students in need. According Forest Jones, middle school students are still open to positive influences, therefore; caring adults can still make a difference in their lives. (Jones, 2011). Programs focused on at-risks students have been proven to increase grades, change attitudes about school, and help students stay in school. Rachel Herzog explains that school-site mentoring programs help increase math and reading skills as well as change the attitude towards schools. (Herzog, 2012) Theresa Kilmer did a study of two alternative middle schools and many of the students …show more content…
Mentors can be adults that are not related to the school or they can include teacher mentors, but either way they appear to be successful. “Mentoring is time-proven strategies that can help kids of all circumstances achieve their potential”. (Herzog, 2012) By developing one-on-one relationships with responsible adults, students can receive support, counseling, friendships, and role models. Many students have developed anti-social behavior as a result of their backgrounds. Rachel Herzog explains in her report that anti-social behavior can be associated with behavioral problems, social withdrawal, peer rejection, academic struggles, and absenteeism. (Herzog, 2012) These problems are indicators of failure in