Hmong Youth for Education (HYE) was a youth-led research group comprised of nine Hmong high school students from various grade levels and high schools within Fresno Unified School District. The team volunteered 2-6 hours each week to explore the factors that influence whether or not Hmong students graduate from high school.

By surveying their peers in various high schools and youth groups, the team explored the impacts of family, friends, religion, community, and school on Hmong students' perceived ability to graduate high school. Analysis of the resulting 354 surveys revealed the strong influences of parents, friends, and teachers. As a result, HYE developed recommendations to Hmong parents, schools serving Hmong youth, and the Hmong community on ways to encourage and support high school graduation.

Collaborating Organization: Youth In Focus

Photo Credits: Sharon McCutcheon; Hmong Youth for Education