And then we surveyed thousands of young people from all 50 states . For the first time , the 20 % of young Americans graduated from high school on time . Alma Powell : We ca n't disregard the well-being of 80 % who did n't . Powell : Many of them object to the term `` dropout '' ; they just decided to change course . She says we must offer support , identify them early , show we care about their futures .
For the first time , the 20 % of young Americans graduated from high school on time . Alma Powell : We ca n't disregard the well-being of 80 % who did n't . Powell : Many of them object to the term `` dropout '' ; they just decided to change course . She says we must offer support , identify them early , show we care about their futures .