Bill Milliken Communities In Schools, Inc., Founder and Vice Chairman,

Background: In light of a recent report on Americas dropout epidemic issued by the Americas Promise Alliance and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, The Last Dropout: Stop the Epidemic! is a must-read book. This compelling new book by lifetime youth advocate Bill Milliken offers hope for Americas dropout crisis, as well as practical solutions that can be used in any community. Author Bill Milliken, founder of Communities In Schools, the nations largest dropout prevention organization, is available for comment. Communities In Schools is the oldest, most successful stay-in-school organization in America. It serves nearly 1.2 million K-12 students annually. Its unique approach of providing school-based services that blend the academic and non-academic needs of students have produced impressive results. 80-90 percent of CIS-tracked students improved in academics, behavior, attendance and promotion to the next grade level. CIS is also one of a handful of dropout prevention organizations proven to increase graduation rates. Topics of Discussion: What is the current dropout rate in America? What are some solutions? How does Communities In Schools work to solve these problems? What are some steps individuals can take to help their children stay in school? Where can people find more information? More about Bill Milliken: Bill Milliken, who founded Communities In Schools in 1977, is one of the most successful and respected youth advocates in the U.S. The year 2000, which marked the 40th anniversary of Millikens commitment to kids, also saw him honored with two major national awards. As winner of the American Association of School Administrators’ “Champion for Children” award, he was lauded by the association as “a guiding force who has opened the doors to success and growth to countless youngsters.” And when the Midwest Center for Nonprofit Leadership gave Milliken its Edward A. Smith Award for Excellence, the center hailed him for providing “the highest level of service to communities.”