Students are disappearing from Cabell County schools and it's not just families moving out.  Escalating dropout rates have become one of the district's top concerns.  In order to develop more effective strategies to keep children in school, Cabell County Schools will host an open discussion for students, staff and community members next Thursday, March 1, 2001.
The public meeting will be held from 6pm to 8pm in the Chandler Auditorium at the Board of Education office, located in the old Huntington East building on the corner of 29th Street and 5th Avenue.
"The education of our youth is a community concern," says Bill Smith, Assistant Superintendent in charge of Student Services.  "If students don't graduate, it creates problems for all of us.  That's why we need everyone to be involved in finding a solution."
The County's Attendance Director, Bennie Thomas, will make a presentation about the district's current dropout prevention programs.  Then, the
floor will be opened for discussion and comments.  Students who have considered dropping out and principals have been invited to attend.