School Environment, Stakeholder Engagement, and Collaborative Service in Preventing High School Dropouts: Evidence from Indonesia

Abstract

High school dropout rates remain a significant issue in education systems globally, undermining students’ future opportunities. This study examines the influence of the school environment, the role of stakeholders, and the concept of collaborative service on dropout prevention, focusing on the critical transition from junior high school to senior high school as a critical point for student retention. Utilizing Structural Equation Modeling—Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) analysis, data were collected from 100 school principals in Indonesia. The findings include both direct and indirect effects through collaborative service mechanisms. Collaborative service has been shown to play a central role in reducing dropout risk, with key factors including commitment, trust, and data-driven support among stakeholders. However, the empirical role of external stakeholders has not shown a significant effect, highlighting a need for better cross-actor governance. Overall, enhancing the quality of the school environment, strengthening collaborative governance, and implementing integrated, evidence-based transition policies are essential foundations for sustainable dropout prevention efforts. This study contributes to the educational literature on dropout prevention and opens opportunities for further research involving socio-economic factors and educational policy innovation at the regional level.