Understanding Foster Care Education: An In-Depth Conversation with Sharon Dunlevy | Wheel With It PodcastIn this episode of the Wheel With It Podcast, Devon hosts Sharon Dunlevy, an educational advocate for children in foster care. Sharon shares her experiences and insights into the challenges faced by foster kids, particularly around education. They discuss the impact of trauma, the necessary laws like ESSA, IDEA, and the Family First Prevention Services Act, and the importance of trauma-informed care and advocacy. Sharon also highlights the significant need for better educational outcomes for foster children to help them become productive members of society. Tune in for a deep dive into how we can better support foster children and foster parents.00:00 The Harsh Realities of Foster Care01:09 Introduction to the Podcast01:38 Meet Sharon Dunlevy: Educational Advocate02:37 Understanding Foster Care Education Laws04:50 The Impact of Trauma on Foster Children13:25 The Importance of Trauma-Informed Care in Schools20:38 The Importance of Educational Outcomes for Foster Kids21:01 Shocking Statistics About Foster Care21:37 Challenges Foster Kids Face in Adulthood22:02 The Impact of Trauma on Foster Kids22:10 Medicaid and Foster Care22:51 Employment Struggles for Foster Kids26:15 The Role of Fear in Politics28:38 Supporting Foster Kids Through Education29:24 Valuing Lived Experience Over Degrees31:48 The Need for Better Support Systems34:18 How to Help Foster Kids in Your Community35:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with Sharon

https://fostercaretrainingtoday.com/[email protected]

https://www.tiktok.com/@sharondunlevy

https://instagram.com/sharondunlevy72

https://www.facebook.com/fostercaretrainingtoday

https://linkedin.com/in/sharondunlevy

Connect with Devon/ the show

https://linktr.ee/wheelwithitpod