5 Top Reasons People Drop Out Of High School

With the drop out rate in the U.S. at such high levels, it's time to understand why. The process of leaving school isn't simply a decision based on one isolated factor, but rather a combination of several different reasons at once; these are the top ones cited.

• 1. Because classes were not interesting

  For many students, the material in the classes they're taking seem so far removed from daily life that it's hard to see the point. Many say this is one primary reason they decide to leave school before graduation.

• 2. Not motivated

  Beyond not connecting with the material, many students aren't given the encouragement and support they need to feel motivated to study and learn. Without motivation -- and with plenty of other pressures pushing in -- they lose the focus school requires.

• 3. Got a job

  The need to work while attending school is an unavoidable reality for many students, and once the job's requirement for hours starts making attendance at school difficult, the job often wins.

• 4. Became a parent

  Being a parent is a job in itself -- and for many students in high school with children, it's impossible to reconcile having kids with getting a degree.

• 5. To care for a family member

  Like raising a child, taking care of a sick or aging relative is a big job, and one that sadly can make life difficult for even the most dedicated potential graduates.