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Abstract

The poor educational outcomes of foster children is recognized as a national problem. The literature is reviewed to define and illustrate the magnitude of the problem. Steps have been taken to improve the problem with passage of the Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act of 2008; it requires states to ensure the educational stability of foster youth. A description of utilizing state level Child and Family Service Review data to analyze a state’s ability to comply with the Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act of 2008 is provided.

Key Take Away Points

  • The problem of poor educational outcomes for foster youth is well documented.
  • The Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act of 2008 has been instituted to ensure the educational stability of foster youth.
  • Individual states can use their Child and Family Service Review data to analyze their progress towards compliance with the Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act.
  • Barriers to successful policy implementation are discussed.

Author Biography

Dr. Hebert is an Assistant Professor at Southeastern Louisiana University. She teaches undergraduate courses in the social work program and is the Title IV-E Child Welfare Program Coordinator. She received her B.A. from Auburn University in Psychology and her M.S.W from the University of Alabama. She received her Ph.D. in Social Work from Louisiana State University. Her research focus is child welfare practice.

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