While examining this module, I found the phrase ATTENTION equals RETENTION to be utterly true. I work on a campus where I am responsible for retention percentages and I agree, the more we provide attention to our students, the more likely they are to "stick around." On the other hand, when we focus too much on numbers (retention), then we have to work backwards to place more attention on our students to figure out "why" they are dropping out of school hince how RETENTION can equal ATTENTION. Do you currently experience this at your school? What methods seems to work best to find a balance between numbers and providing attention to your students?

Why is it that so many schools experience a high percentage of drop-outs?

I really like the idea of the study the Florida College conducted. It is a really big deal at our schools that it is everyone's job to help with retention but we are always discussing the students who are off track and not the students who are on track. This tends to have negative effects when the students who are on track disappear. I really like the idea of having a group of students for each staff member to go find and talk to, this hits the student body as a whole and gives every student the attention they should have.

Students do feel important to the school and honored to assist in the graduation preparation. This definitely help in retention of students and they anticipate their when they will walk to receive their diploma or degree.

Must focus on custermer and determine what their needs are

does this method work?

I can't wait to apply all this concept to my student!

I believe that the idea of negative attitudes is critical in determining the success of a school. It cannot be stated enough how the staff thinks and acts impacts the students and the entire atmosphere. Administrators should recognize how important it is to build a positive cohesive work environment. If we are positive towards each other, it will help everyone create an environment in which students want to be part of. Just as we want to be encouraging to students, administrators should be encouraging and positive towards their employees. When one feels appreciated, respected and valued, it makes a tremendous difference in the quality of service they provide.

Does anyone have a one week or two week check in meeting with their new students as a group to see how they are doing?

when treating people with kindness you will usually be given returned kindness, and others will be told of helpfullness.

Customer Service Strategies are first impressions,communication skill are very important.

Mystery shoppers informs companys of better way to service the public.

Retention really is everyones job. The school has to be committed across the board in order to be successful. Training for the staff is also necessary.

I know that students don't always want to be "partying" in school, but I believe sometimes a break with fun activities is helpful for morale and gives the student a break to possibly prevent academic erosion.

The enviroment in the school is a very important factor in retention. Many times student don't feel they can ask anyone for help. This leads them to not seeking any help till it is too late. They must feel like the school is there for them.

I believe a well planned orientation is a great start to a program. I believe the staff should be enthusiatic about the students who have made it to the program and continue to grow on that bond. I believe that it is very important to make sure all questions are answered (somewhat)during orientation. So the agenda should be thorough.

All these suggestions look good in theory but in practice they are not as cut and dried. Some of these students are facing incredible circumstances and getting them to open up can require more than a survey.

I am so very lucky to work with a group of admissions personnel. I believe they always have the interest of the facility in mind when selecting candidates, however I believe that it is still a very difficult task, because potential students are fulfilling a dream and may say what they believe the admission personnel want to hear, in order to fulfill their dream.

It is important to understand where the students are on GAS. A good rapport is necessary in order to help them get through or at least manage their stress better.

Such basic information can be so helpful. I thought I understood attrition but now I know. I am going to be a better listerner/supporter for my students.