Insight and inspiration for GED seekers More than 39 million
Americans 16 and older lack a high school diploma, according to
the 2010 U.S. Census. And while a new survey indicates their
reasons for dropping out range from lack of parental support to
becoming parents themselves, those seeking a second chance at an
education often find hope in General Educational Development
(GED) programs. Daily, about 7,000 students drop out of high
school – about 1.3 million per year, according to advocacy group
Alliance for Excellent Education. Nearly a quarter of those who
drop out cite a lack of parental support or encouragement as
their chief reason for not completing high school, according to
the 2012 High School Dropouts in America survey conducted by
Harris/Decima on behalf of Everest College. Becoming a parent
prompted 21 percent to drop out, and missing too many days of
school influenced 17 percent. “Americans without a high school
diploma or GED test credential face tremendous challenges,” says
John Swartz, regiona