Providing a Sound Educational Framework for Foster Youth: A Proposed Research Agenda

Abstract

Youth living in out-of-home care often have multiple risk factors for school failure. Family disruption and frequent moves between schools compromise a student's ability to succeed in school. When mental health and behavioral issues compound these risk factors, students are at even greater risk. Despite the poor academic outcomes for foster youth, few programs aim to reduce risk and promote school success for this population. Few researchers have evaluated the effectiveness of existing programs, and there is little evidence of the effectiveness of the strategies designed to prevent school failure for foster youth. This article identifies gaps in services to youth in out-of-home care and proposes a research agenda to build our knowledge and understanding of what is needed, and how to increase the use of effective practices.

KEYWORDS:

• foster care
• education