Overview

Check & Connect is a dropout prevention strategy that relies on close monitoring of school performance, as well as mentoring, case management, and other supports. The program has two main components: “Check” and “Connect.” The Check component is designed to continually assess student engagement through close monitoring of student performance and progress indicators. The Connect component involves program staff giving individualized attention to students, in partnership with school personnel, family members, and community service providers. Students enrolled in Check & Connect are assigned a “monitor” who regularly reviews their performance (in particular, whether students are having attendance, behavior, or academic problems) and intervenes when problems are identified. The monitor also advocates for students, coordinates services, provides ongoing feedback and encouragement, and emphasizes the importance of staying in school.

Research

One study of Check & Connect met the What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) evidence standards, and a second study met WWC standards with reservations. The two studies included a total of more than 200 students attending Minneapolis high schools. In both studies the students entered the program at the beginning of the ninth grade. The studies examined the program’s effects in three dropout prevention domains considered by the WWC: staying in school, progressing in school, and completing school. ¹

Effectiveness

Check & Connect was found to have positive effects on staying in school and potentially positive effects on progressing in school. It was found to have no discernible effects on completing school within four years of entering the program.