Does participation in 4-H improve student outcomes? Evidence from Florida and Ohio

This study used data on school districts and grade-levels observed over several school years and a difference in difference in differences approach to control for potential unobserved confounders of causal relationships of interest. The author examined the impacts of participation in 4-H on test scores and behavioral outcomes and results of the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, with 4-H participation information obtained from Florida 4-H and Ohio achievement Assessments combined with 4-H participation information obtained from Ohio 4-H. The results in Florida showed that 4-H participation has a statistically significant effects on both mathematics and reading subtests for Florida 4-H members. Ohio 4-H members were also positive, the though the effects are milder. An inconclusive result was shown on the program's effects related to misconduct in both states.