ALTERNATIVE DIPLOMA PROGRAMS

Home school programs are viable sources for recieving a high school diploma other than the traditional local school.

As a retired High School Principal, I have spent considerable time exploring home school alternatives to enable school dropouts to acquire their high school diploma.  During this exploration, I also found many programs that may help in encouraging students to stay in school.  I believe that a four year high school experience in a student's local school is the best option and should be taken whenever possible.  However, I also recognize that students drop out of school for a wide variety of reasons; many of them legitimate.  The most common reasons for students to drop out are lack of interest, boredom, bullying, and pregnancy.  Some students drop out simply because they are not able to adapt to the regimentation demanded.  I have also witnessed students dropping out because they were the primary source of income for their families.  No matter the reason, dropping out of high school will have a long lasting and negative affect on the person's lifelong earning potential. 
Estimate of earnings according to education level:
                                
Earnings  Per Week  Per Year
School Dropout $428 $22,300
Diploma $604 $31,400
Some College $683 $35,500
Associate $740 $38,500
Bachelor Degree $987 $51,000
Master Degree $1165 $60,600

 Home school programs, whether for a G.E.D. (general equivalency diploma), or a regonized high school diploma should be explored.  Most Junior Colleges will accept the G.E.D. for enrollment into a two year associate program upon completion of which they can transfer into a four year degree program.  These alternative solutions to a traditional diploma will give the high school dropout a much better chance of future success.
 
In additional to home school diploma programs, there are many at home tutoring programs online that will help many students stay in school who withdraw because of boredom, lack of interest, or lack of success.  These programs often offer more in depth curriculum than the classroom teacher may be able to reach.