Research

“A place that bucks a state-wide trend of unequal opportunity, retention and education.”

Research shows that boys of color, with risk factors predictive of being a school dropout, often show warning signs in middle school grades through low-test performance, poor grades and attendance, and disciplinary infractions. YouthBuild seeks to mitigate these risk factors by providing supportive networks, structure, and exposure to positive experiences.

Currently, Rhode Island has one of the highest graduation rates in the country, however; the state also has the largest graduation gap between different demographics. Per a study by Johns Hopkins University in January 2016, there is an average of a 20% difference in graduation rates between students of color and white students within the state of Rhode Island. The city of Providence has the largest school district and presents the greatest area
of concern.