Post—High School Employment: A Follow-Up of Apache Native American Youth

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the post–high school employment status of Apache Native American youth. In 1992, face-to-face interviews were conducted with 106 former high school students who exited from Alchesay High School between 1988 and 1992. Fourteen students who received special education services and 19 who received general education were employed. The remaining 38 special education students and 35 general education students expressed various reasons for their unemployment. The unemployed Apache youth stated that their lives would be better off if they had suitable employment. Results are discussed in light of their cultural implications for employment and the transition mandates of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.