Central Texas High School Graduate Data Center: Findings from the 2006 Senior Surveys
Authors:Deanna Schexnayder, Greg Cumpton, and Nicole Beck
Date: May 2007
Publication Type: Report, 78pp.
Abstract: As part of the Central Texas Student Futures Project, Ray Marshall Center researchers survey Central Texas seniors each spring in the semester prior to their expected graduation to gain insight into factors that cannot be examined with students’ existing high school records.
In Findings from the 2006 Senior Surveys, researchers analyze responses for all 2006 seniors surveyed in six participating school districts—Austin, Del Valle, Leander, Manor, Pflugerville and Round Rock Independent School Districts—regarding family background and influences, high school experiences, and preparation for life after high school. The analysis also examines statistically significant differences for particular groups of high school students of concern to policymakers, including those who would be the first in their family to attend college, Hispanic students, and low-income students.
The research found that both the demographic characteristics of the 2006 survey respondents and their collective senior classes varied widely. Despite these differences, there was widespread agreement among students in their interest in further education beyond high school. However, major differences existed among different types of students in completing the detailed steps needed to successfully pursue further education. In general, female, White and Asian students were most likely to participate in the activities needed for further educational success, while low-income and first-generation students were least likely to do so.
The 2006 survey results have been used to developing statistical models predicting postsecondary outcomes for Central Texas seniors. The details of that analysis are presented in the September 2007 report Education and Work After High School: A First Look at the Class of 2006.
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