Focusing on Foster Families

May is Foster Care Month, and we’d like to acknowledge the role that foster families play in the school community. Foster parents face challenges raising children that may have traumatic pasts and are more likely to be behind academically and/or have developmental delays. Now, due to the pandemic, they may now also have to play the role of social worker as well.

Teachers and staff serving students in the foster care system should recognize the additional struggles that the students may face. Flexibility and discretion in the attendance policy for students that have fallen behind in their schoolwork is one way to help. In addition, as you review your policies, consider using inclusive language. For example, instead of writing “parents,” consider writing “parent(s)/guardian(s)” to recognize the diversity in family situation of your students. Also, remember that schools are required to include preference for a foster child of an enrolled student's parent(s)/guardian(s). Finally, responsive transportation planning can support students who may be moving frequently, as evidenced by groups working on supporting children in foster care facing absenteeism in California. Taking these actions will help the school to reach its goal of making students of all familial backgrounds feel welcome.