Education program launched for foster high school students

A nonprofit dedicated to supporting foster children transitioning out of the foster care system launched a program Thursday designed to help high school students prepare for higher education or career options after graduation.

Foster Success announced the Educational Success program at the organization’s inaugural educators’ conference and opened up applications for Hoosier children who spent time in foster care after the age of 14.

“This program is designed to help Indiana students in foster care navigate the wide array of options available to them after graduation and set a path to help them achieve their goals,” said Foster Success Assistant Director of Outreach and Engagement for Education Tiffany Powell in a release. “Individuals in foster care often lack consistent adult mentors who can guide them as they decide whether to attend a two-year or four-year college, trade school, certification program, or go into the military. Pathways will fill that gap.”

Roughly 500 children “age out” of the foster system each year, according to the organization, and this program will attempt to help students structure individualized plans for career preparation before graduation. The program includes a grade-specific curriculum and incorporates state educational initiatives and 21 Century Scholarship Scholar Success Program requirements.

Participants will receive information about different opportunities, resources to prepare for college admissions exams, scholarship application guidance, information about housing and financial incentives.

To learn more and apply, visit fostersuccess.org/educational-success/pathways/.