Academies affected outcomes for students who were likely to drop out much more than for other students. Among students at high risk of school failure, academies significantly cut dropout rates and increased attendance, credits earned, and postsecondary preparation. When results are averaged across the full sample, it appears academy improvements in engagement and performance were only modest, so it is important to examine disaggregated results in order to identify subgroups for whom the academy is most effective. Academies did not improve reading and math standardized test scores, but Kemple and Snipes question how well these tests adequately capture learning from academy model. Many academy students are less well prepared at the beginning of high school and thus not considered likely to go to college.
Conclusions Sustaining the three key components that distinguish career academies is vital.
This requires effort and commitment from teachers, administrators, employers, and students. Successful career academies vary in order to adapt to local needs and circumstances . Academies successfully keep students in school . Enrollment is voluntary, and student choice may be influenced by peers, teachers, and families. Academies improve the chances of graduating by improving attendance and credit accumulation.