When students lack encouragement or guidance from adults in their academic endeavors, graduation may not be a priority.

The consequences of not graduating are dire — unemployment, underemployment, even incarceration, according to the National Education Association.

In an effort to provide more support, Graduation Matters Kalispell has launched a partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Flathead County. Graduation Matters Kalispell is an initiative to reduce dropout rates.

The goal is to recruit 50 volunteer mentors from the community and pair them with high school students in danger of dropping out based on grades or frequent absences.

While Kalispell Public Schools has multiple academic opportunities for students to improve their academics, this program has a more personal aim, increasing one-on-one time with caring, adult mentors.

“We’re hoping this one-on-one adult time gives kids that extra boost to graduate and make it through,” said Mike Kofford, outreach coordinator for Kalispell schools.

Mentors will be matched with students who share similar interests.

They will help students explore career choices and bolster positive attitudes. Often students just need a caring adult who will listen, not reprimand Kofford said.

“Some of these students have faced immense challenges — unstable home lives, drug use, et cetera — and need someone to believe in them,” Kofford said. “They need positive adults in their lives to help show them the way and listen to their needs. Increased time with responsible adults who model constructive behaviors can help them grow into healthier lives and set them on a path to success.”

Mentors will need to commit a minimum of eight hours a month for a year. All ages are welcome, but Kofford said he would like to see young adults, 22 and up, train to become mentors.

A training session conducted by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Flathead County will be held in September. Mentors will receive ongoing support throughout the year from the organization.

There are two main goals for the program, Kofford said.

“One is to let students know they are supported and they have someone they can go talk to with issues they are facing,” Kofford said, with graduation as the second goal.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Flathead County Executive Director Tim Sievers welcomes the opportunity to reach more youths.

“We are ecstatic. We are so happy to be partnering with the school district,” Sievers said.

In addition to screening potential mentors, helping create matches and plan activities, Big Brothers and Big Sisters Flathead County will work with the district to monitor student progress.

“We’re ultimately looking to improve GPA’s and have fewer absences,” Sievers said.

Sievers said the program goes far beyond the data and improves youths’ self-confidence. Kofford added that the program also benefits the community.

“By working together, we can make a difference in the lives of these youth, setting them on a path to success and at the same time support the healthy growth and development of our community by helping to provide a qualified workforce for the future,” Kofford said.

Graduation Matters Kalispell is part of Graduation Matters Montana, a statewide initiative launched by the Office of Public Instruction to raise high school graduation rates and increase awareness about the importance of graduation.

People who are interested in becoming mentors should call 751-3432 or visit www.graduationmatters.wordpress.com.

Reporter Hilary Matheson may be reached at 758-4431 or by email at [email protected].