A new South Dakota law prohibits kids from dropping out of school before age 18, and now local districts are finding new ways to keep at-risk students from falling through the cracks. Sioux Falls administrators have developed a GED prep course, and it's become very popular.

Seventeen-year-old Mike Cameron is one of around 60 students enrolled in the GED prep course at Joe Foss Alternative School.

"I've struggled with regular school in the past and I figured this was my opportunity to catch up and get out of this hole I'm stuck in," Cameron said.

He took a practice test and will soon complete the series of five official exams in reading, writing, science, social studies and math. Students can only enter the program if they're referred by a teacher, and a lot is expected of them.

"They need to be here, they need to use their time wisely. Most have a further goal, whether it's school or work, or just to finish school," teacher Sheila Fossell said.

How quickly students complete the program really does depend on their own motivation. In Cameron's case, he hopes to be done by November.

"I want to be a police officer so I'll get a bachelor's degree in law enforcement," said Cameron. "After I get my GED, I can move on and get going with my plans."

Cameron says working at his own pace has kept him on track, and he's changed the way he approaches his studies. Rather than feeling discouraged at school, he now excels.

"I'm very proud of myself. It's helped me be a better person and helped me learn a lot more, open up my mind," Cameron said.

The program is available for 16- and 17-year-olds in any Sioux Falls school, and the GED exams are given a couple times a month at Southeast Technical Institute.

Learn more about the GED Prep Program online.