Fostering Success in Education: Educational Outcomes of Students in Foster Care in the United States

National Working Group on Foster Care and Education, Peter J. Pecora, Kirk O’Brien - Education in Out-of-Home Care

Abstract

Supporting educational needs of students in foster care is a fundamental responsibility of child welfare agencies, education agencies, and courts. The systems and all other sectors of the community such as business, housing, health care, voluntary sector and faith-based organisations must work together to improve policies and practices. For more than a decade, momentum has grown at the federal, state and local levels to prioritize the educational needs of students in foster care. Increased data collection and reporting at state and local levels helps evaluate what programs are working and identify where interventions are needed. This Chapter from the book Education in Out-of-Home Care reviews research and promising programs in the U.S. affecting the educational success of children in foster care.