Engaging high-school dropouts in Montana by enrolling them in college

After trying to attend each of Helena’s public high schools without success, 19-year-old Christina Becker is now on a path to earn her high school diploma — this time at the University of Montanan Helena.

“(The high schools) are very different, but all have the same teaching methods,” Becker said. “I have a problem reading out of a book and learning. The structure of the college environment is very helpful.”

Becker is one of the first 20 students accepted into the Access to Success program, a joint endeavor between the Helena School District and UM-Helena launched in January. The program aims to reach the nearly 4,000 area residents identified who don’t have a high school diploma.

“This is another avenue for students who fell through the cracks or are gifted and got bored,” instructor Pam Poole said.

By ALANA LISTOE – Independent Record

Full Story: http://helenair.com/articles/2009/03/26/local/top/50lo_090326_dropouts.txt