Educational outcomes in teenage pregnancy and parenting programs: results from a demonstration

A comparison of five in-school educational and service approaches offered at seven sites in Arizona to 789 pregnant and parenting teenagers shows that except for those who enroll in a program in their third trimester, pregnant and parenting teenagers who attend a comprehensive, school-based, community-linked program are significantly more likely to continue in school than are those who have no access to a special program. The comprehensive program's impact is greatest among Hispanic students, younger students, those in grades 9-10, those who are living with their partner and those who enter the program in the first trimester. Two of the program components--strong outreach efforts and case management-are believed to have an especially favorable impact on continuation in school.