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Educating children and youth in care: A review of barriers to school progress and strategies for change

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  • Ferguson, H. Bruce
  • Wolkow, Katherine

Abstract

Research has demonstrated that young people in care are at a significant educational disadvantage. Over the past decade, a number of qualitative research studies have focused specifically on identifying barriers to school success. These findings reveal widespread systems failings and a pervasive disregard for the educational needs of foster children and youth. Potential solutions focus primarily on facilitating collaborative relationships between the various systems and individual professionals in charge of these students' needs. Other core recommendations call for improved school records, increased stability of educational placements and educational supports for students in care. Yet, while limited progress is evident to date, new systemic and local strategies in Ontario, Canada hold promise for the future. Such strategies, combined with high expectations and a focus on individual needs, may result in more positive educational outcomes.

Suggested Citation

  • Ferguson, H. Bruce & Wolkow, Katherine, 2012. "Educating children and youth in care: A review of barriers to school progress and strategies for change," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 34(6), pages 1143-1149.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:cysrev:v:34:y:2012:i:6:p:1143-1149
    DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2012.01.034
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Flynn, Robert J. & Marquis, Robyn A. & Paquet, Marie-Pierre & Peeke, Lisa M. & Aubry, Tim D., 2012. "Effects of individual direct-instruction tutoring on foster children's academic skills: A randomized trial," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 34(6), pages 1183-1189.
    2. Pecora, Peter J. & Kessler, Ronald C. & O'Brien, Kirk & White, Catherine Roller & Williams, Jason & Hiripi, Eva & English, Diana & White, James & Herrick, Mary Anne, 2006. "Educational and employment outcomes of adults formerly placed in foster care: Results from the Northwest Foster Care Alumni Study," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 28(12), pages 1459-1481, December.
    3. Cook, Ronna J., 1994. "Are we helping foster care youth prepare for their future?," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 16(3-4), pages 213-229.
    4. Trout, Alexandra L. & Hagaman, Jessica & Casey, Kathryn & Reid, Robert & Epstein, Michael H., 2008. "The academic status of children and youth in out-of-home care: A review of the literature," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 30(9), pages 979-994, September.
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