What puts a student at risk varies greatly be student. For some students, adapting to a larger school environment is simply overwhelming. Others may have learning or emotional issues that make school a greater challenge. Others may simply need more individualized instruction to spark their interest in learning.

The program at the district's Academy High Schools are designed to keep students in high school while focused on graduation with a successful academic record. Students at Meridian Academy participate in student support groups, and are required to live up to the school's high standards of behavior.