CHOICES ® is a powerful interactive seminar designed to help middle school students realize they can take charge of their lives. Utilizing Independence Chamber volunteers, presenters use an eye opening role play to get classes involved to make real world connections between school and work.

Most importantly, CHOICES® sends the message, "if you learn, you earn," and dropping out of school limits your job choices.

Since implementing the program with ninth grade students in 2000-2001, dropout rates in the Independence School District have been reduced 26%! Because of its success, the Independence Chamber of Commerce now voluntarily promotes the CHOICES® program to other Chambers and school districts nationwide. We do not take full credit for reducing the schools' dropout rate. That belongs to the School Board, administrators, and dedicated teachers.

Visit the national website at www.CHOICES.org