The Dropout Epidemic - Solving America’s Costliest Crisis

Explore the critical issue of high school dropouts in America through this compelling TEDx talk by Dr. Kadhir Rajagopal. Discover how one million annual dropouts contribute to 80% of the nation's prison population, homicides, crimes, homelessness, and human trafficking, costing countless lives and billions of dollars. Learn about the crucial "make or break" 9th-grade year and how early intervention based on attendance and grades can prevent 80% of dropouts. Follow Dr. Rajagopal's personal journey from a struggling middle school student to California State Teacher of the Year, and his 20-year mission transforming failing 9th graders into scholars and productive citizens. Gain insights into an effective culturally responsive mentoring and teaching model that can end the dropout crisis. Understand how parents, educators, and citizens can actively participate in solving this "silent epidemic" and unlock the potential of urban youth through the CREATE pedagogy.