Topeka ? Gov. Mark Parkinson on Tuesday issued an executive order to set up a commission aimed at reducing the school dropout rate in Kansas.

“In today’s ever-changing economy, one thing that remains constant is the benefit of possessing a high school diploma,” Parkinson said. “Young people who graduate from school are less likely to be unemployed, require government assistance and be involved in criminal activity. If we are truly to come out of this economic recession, we must guide our young Kansans through their education providing them, and our state, greater opportunities for the future.”

During the past 10 years, about 38,700 Kansas students have dropped out of school, resulting in $10 billion in lost earnings, taxes and productivity. This has also resulted in $479 million in Medicaid and uninsured health care costs.

The Kansas Commission on Graduation and Dropout Prevention and Recovery will meet monthly and make a report by January.

It will include representatives from social service organizations, business, faith-based agencies, the armed forces, the education sector, parents, students, the Legislature, and numerous state agencies.