Summary

In today’s changing economy and global competition, the demand for a better educated workforce has been increasing. Since the 1970’s, new structures of work have emerged that require a highly skilled labor force. What do Michigan residents think about future educational needs of young people? What level of education do they expect their children will most likely attend? Using data from the State of State Survey (SOSS), we examined parents’ aspirations and expectations for their youth’s educational futures. Specifically, this brief examines whether parents’ aspirations and expectations for their youth’s educational futures vary by race and ethnicity, education attainment, family income, marital status, and rural/ urban residential location. View PDF (to download, right click on the link and select "save link as")

Summary

There is growing evidence that after-school programs promote positive youth development (Eccles & Gootman, 2002).  Gambone, Klem, and Connell (2002) in their model, A Community Action Framework for Youth Development, suggest that after-school programs prepare young people for successful transition to young adulthood.  Through their participation in youth programs, young people have access to opportunities to learn and build important skills.  Studies find that, compared to family and community factors, time spent in youth programs is the most consistent predictor of youth thriving (Borden, Perkins, Villarruel, Carlton Hug, Stone, & Keith, 2006).  View PDF (to download, right click on the link and select "save link as")

Summary

This study relies on data from the 2006 State of the State Survey (SOSS-43) in Michigan conducted by the Institute for Public Policy and Social Research at Michigan State University. The SOSS-43 is a random digit dialing (RDD) telephone survey of the Michigan adult population and was supplemented with a sample of Hispanics/Latinos in Michigan. The survey was conducted from Aug. 10 through Oct. 21 for the main portion of the survey and from Sept. 18 through Nov. 13 for the supplemental Hispanic/Latino sample. Using a stratified and disproportionate sampling design by regions of the state, 1563 interviews were completed. View PDF (to download, right click on the link and select "save link as")