AbstractsSociology

Obtaining an education is an essential part of developing into an adult and becoming a functioning member of society. However, many youth in foster care are at considerable risk for low academic achievement as many are racial/ethnic minorities, English language learners, living in poverty, and many have disabilities. Though efforts have been made throughout the last several decades, there has generally been little success in closing this educational achievement gap. The purpose of this project is to write a grant and identify a funding source to implement training workshops for educators, child welfare and school social workers, and foster parents to increase the awareness of the risk factors for drop-out and the programs and practices that have contributed to student academic success. Part of the funds will be used to develop resource packets for workshop attendees. A prospective funder was identified, although actual funding and submission of this grant proposal were not requirements for the successful completion of this project.