Troy’s Story: “I really didn’t know what I was going to do”

Troy knew he’d messed up.

District guidelines strictly prohibited weapons on campus. In bringing a knife to school, Troy had broken a “zero tolerance” rule.

“I got expelled,” the high school sophomore said. “Pretty much there was nothing I could do about it. And at that point, I really didn’t know what I was going to do.”

School leaders needed to enforce the rules, but they also wanted to make sure Troy had every opportunity to finish his high school education. And that’s one of the reasons they launched a NoDropouts program.

The program places students who can not or will not attend a traditional school into online learning programs, surrounded by multiple layers of support, including certified teachers, expert mentors and local advocates.

After four months of hard work, Troy had earned more than three academic credits — keeping him on pace to stay with his cohort. With the support of NoDropouts teachers, mentors and local advocates, Troy applied for re-admission to his school and was accepted.

Troy’s mother said her son “is very excited to be back with his peers.”

And Troy said he has newfound appreciation for the privilege of attending school.

“I feel lucky,” he said. “It turned out pretty well.”

Is there an Troy in your community? We can help you help him. Call us at 855-NO-DROPOUTS or send an e-mail to info@nodropouts.com