Sharon Dunleavy joins Rachel in this enlightening episode to shed some serious light on the critical role of educational advocacy for kids in foster care. With around 20,000 youth aging out of the system each year, Sharon dives deep into the staggering statistics that reveal a troubling reality—many of these kids face challenges like homelessness and incarceration. We chat about the importance of understanding trauma and how it affects learning, plus the laws that can help foster kids get the educational support they need. Sharon’s insights not only highlight the dire need for advocacy but also serve up some practical advice for foster parents navigating the educational landscape. So, whether you’re a seasoned foster parent or just curious about the system, you won’t want to miss this conversation packed with valuable info and a few laughs along the way!

Sharon Dunleavy, a passionate advocate for foster care education, brings her wealth of experience to the conversation, diving deep into the often-overlooked needs of children in foster care. With a background in special education and over two decades in ministry, Sharon's journey into foster care advocacy stemmed from a desire to serve vulnerable kids. She shares how she transitioned to training foster parents on educational advocacy, emphasizing the critical role that education plays in the lives of foster children. The statistics she presents are staggering: 20,000 youth age out of foster care annually, yet 25% fail to graduate high school. These numbers highlight the urgent need for informed advocates like Sharon, who work tirelessly to ensure that every child in the foster system receives the educational support they deserve. The conversation touches on systemic issues within the foster care system and the importance of trauma-informed practices in schools, shedding light on how teachers can better understand and support their students. Sharon's insights serve as a wake-up call for all of us to step up and be advocates for these children, whose futures depend on the support and resources we provide today.

Takeaways:

• Foster kids need strong advocates; their voices often get lost in the shuffle.
• Educational rights for foster kids can be confusing, so it's crucial for foster parents to understand them.
• Trauma significantly affects the brain's development; early intervention can help improve outcomes for foster kids.
• Discipline is about teaching, not punishment; it's essential to focus on the positives in behavior management.
• Many foster kids face mental health challenges; being trauma-informed is key to supporting their needs.
• Statistics reveal that a large percentage of youth aging out of foster care face dire challenges; awareness is the first step to change.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• sharondunlevy.com
• Every Student Succeeds Act
• Individuals with Disabilities Act
• Family First Prevention Services Act
• Annie Casey Foundation
• Aquarius Rising
• Split Rock Studios
• Joe Fulginiti