Maximizing educational opportunities for youth aging out of foster care by engaging youth voices in a partnership for social change

This study examines the challenges faced by youth in foster care who are making the transition from high school to college. Forty-three high school and college students from across the state of Michigan who are or were in foster care spoke before panels of policymakers at two public forums. Transcripts from their testimony were analyzed. Eight main barriers to high school completion and college access were identified. The most frequently cited was a lack of supportive relationships with caring adults. This research demonstrates how the voice of youth in foster care can have an impact on the policies that affect their lives.

► The challenges faced by foster care youth in accessing college were examined.
► Eight main barriers to high school completion and college access were identified.
► Most frequently cited need was support from caring adults.
► Shows how youth can serve as collaborators in policy and program planning.