Girls consistently are outperforming boys, graduating at higher rates at public high schools around the country. Students, educators and researchers say there are several reasons why boys are falling short. Men generally can earn the same wages as women with less education. But boys also are more likely to face suspensions or other discipline knocking them off track. Over the long term, lacking a high school degree can hold men back. Studies show young men who drop out of high school earn less over their lifetimes and are more likely to end up in jail.