Middle School Foster Youth (MSFY) Education Program: It’s All About Middle School

Middle school years are the most critical time for children to achieve at-grade level literacy. But research indicates that our foster youth fall below or far below their peers. 2006 standardized testing scores reveal a real need for change in educational support for foster youth.

In California, approximately 30% of foster youth function one to two grade levels below their peers in reading and math; 50% are held back in school; and 46% drop out before obtaining a high school diploma.

Social workers, foster parents, the education community, and community-based organizations need adequate training, tools, and information about the educational status of foster youth students to advocate on their behalf. To meet these unfulfilled needs and build community capacity, the Children’s Fund launched the Middle School Foster Youth (MSFY) Literacy Initiative in 2006 engaging the 11 school districts with the highest needs:

MSFY Objectives:

• Engage existing education resources to focus on improving literacy and math
• Create individualized education plans and measurements
• Enhance education services by providing additional tutoring, scholarships, and transportation
• Build a countywide Middle School Literacy Team

For the most current information on MSFY progress or if you wish to contribute, please contact:

Catherine Westerbeck, Program Manager
catherinewesterbeck@svcf.org
(408) 356-5157