Teen community: a mentoring program for at-risk middle school students

Committee members: Kimberley Woo (Chair), Robin MarionThe purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a school-based program, Teen Community, designed to improve the academic progress, overall behavior, and social/emotional well-being of middle school students deemed at-risk for retention or alternative placement. A case study design was used, gathering both qualitative and quantitative data for analysis. Specifically analyzed were academic and behavior records, and interviews and surveys/questionnaires about attitudes and self-concept. Data analysis for the sample group showed overall improvement in academic status and behaviors, and positive increases in self-concepts and attitudes towards school. Some students, however, in both the overall program population and the sample group showed decreases in grade point average. Students who were interviewed expressed positive feelings about the value of the program in their lives. This research gives further insight into the nature of mentoring programs and their impact on middle school students considered at-risk. It is recommended that further research be conducted to fill in the literature gaps for mentoring programs dealing with at-risk students at this age level. The importance of giving such students chances to improve their situations is paramount. Keywords: at-risk, mentoring, middle school, retention, school attitude