Overview of dropping out article on page 8 of the final newspaper issue.

Ever thought about dropping out? It’s a pretty common thought. School gets stressful and juggling school with work, sports, and life can be exhausting.

Some kids actually do drop out, and in 2014 6.5% of all students according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Hispanics have a high drop out rate at 10.6%. Out of the males, 7.1% drop out and out of the females, 5.9% drop out.

These statistics were based on 16-24 year old who did not earn their high school diploma.

When thinking of dropping out, consider the facts. People who drop out will most likely make around $10,000 less than someone who did finish high school and over $35,000 less than someone with a bachelor’s degree, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. There will be a greater chance to live in poverty, 30.8% more likely than someone who finished college. Also, according to the National Dropout Prevention Center, 82% of U.S. prisoners are high school drop outs.

In the state of Indiana, the age of dropping out is 18, or 16 with the consent of the principal and parents. After almost 12 years of school, dropping out may not be the best option, considering there is probably less than a year left of school.

School is stressful, and trying to multitask a job, after school activities, and life can be even harder. If there is ever a thought of dropping out, talk to someone you trust and make sure it’s the right decision.