A Community Taking A Community Taking ACTION ACTION

Interagency Agreement (Children in DCF Care)

Interagency Agreement (Children in DCF Care)

Commitment to YouthCommitment to Youth

Foster Care YouthFoster Care Youth71% are age 6 to 18

Are more likely to be retained

Score lower on standardized tests

Lose 4-6 months educational progress due to changing homes and schools

71% are age 6 to 18

Are more likely to be retained

Score lower on standardized tests

Lose 4-6 months educational progress due to changing homes and schools

Many SystemsMany Systems

Many Silos Many Silos

Interagency AgreementInteragency Agreement

Signed July 2011Signed July 2011

Stability andStability andSeamless TransitionsSeamless Transitions

Students should remain in their home school, unless unsafe.

Minimize trauma

AVOID:

◦Enrollment delay

◦Records transfer delay

◦Repeat or missing educational materials

◦Loss of credits

Foster Care Youth

Identified as abused or neglected

Under supervision: Department of Children and Families Child and Family Connections

Who are ‘Covered Youth’?Who are ‘Covered Youth’?

Who are ‘Covered Youth’?Who are ‘Covered Youth’?

Homeless Youth

“Awaiting Placement” Covered under 42 USC

11302, Mc Kinney-Vento Act

Lack fixed, regular, adequate nighttime residence

Primary nighttime residence Shelter

Temporary residence

Accommodations not designed for sleeping

Be An Be An AdvocateAdvocate

Learn about abused, neglected and homeless children.

Promote school as a safe and secure place.

Enroll youth in free lunch program.

Encourage participation in school activities.

Be ProactiveBe Proactive

Meet case managers, shelter parents, and group home staff.

Invite agencies to educational forums.

Encourage foster parents to take an active part in youth’s education.

Ensure front office staff know and follow protections for ‘covered youth’.

Foster Care Registration FormFoster Care Registration Form(“Salmon Form”)(“Salmon Form”)

Coming Together as a TeamComing Together as a Team

Where Can I Turn for Help?Where Can I Turn for Help?