If you think a high school education is not important, read this CNN article about how factories in the U.S. can't seem to get enough "qualified" workers.

"The problem, the companies say, is a mismatch between the kind of skilled workers needed and the ranks of the unemployed."

"Now they are looking to hire people who can operate sophisticated computerized machinery, follow complex blueprints and demonstrate higher math proficiency than was previously required of the typical assembly line worker."

http://www.cnn.com/2010/OPINION/07/06/frum.skills.mismatch/index.html?hpt=C2

Similarly in Alberta, large numbers of jobs on the rigs, attract young people away from the classroom. However as large oil companies become more automated, those who lack an education will likely find themselves unemployed.

It never hurts to have a high school diploma but it may hurt to drop out early. Its worth the effort.