Children whose family environment, socioeconomic status, and/or behavioral history place them at a high probability of failing or dropping out of school.

The term "at risk" is used by educators, social service personnel, and others when referring to children who have a high probability of experiencing failure in school. The child may be at risk for any one or a combination of factors that include family environment, socioeconomic status, health, and behavior or emotional problems. Also designated as "at risk" are adolescents who, due to a combination of socioeconomic status, physical and/or mental illness, have a high probability of becoming involved in activities that endanger their psychological health. These activities can include being the perpetrator or victim of violence, engaging in early and unprotected sex, using alcohol and drugs, and becoming truant or delinquent. The set of situations and behaviors associated with failure in...