This book is about theory, practice, and reform in working with youth who are at-risk in our schools. The book addresses several important topics, including: Problems of definition of at-risk and measurement; social, political and health aspects of being at-risk; theories of at-risk status including coping competence, agency intrinsic motivation and cultivation theory; the voices of those who are at-risk; groups that are often ignored when discussing at-risk youth, Native Americans and Appalachians; necessary changes such as prevention, early intervention, and a critical look at assessment practices and grades; a look at the role of higher education.