1. SPC Fostering Achievement Program
Helping foster care alumni achieve their post-secondary educational goals
Deborah Eldridge, JD
SPC Faculty, Paralegal Studies
Cheryl Kerr, Ed.D., LMHC
SPC Human Services Program Director & Foster Care Liaison 
Todd Smith
SPC Executive Student Services Director, Financial Aid Services
Moving the Needle Conference
November 8, 2018

2. Youth from Foster Care and College
About 70% of foster youth say they want to go to college.
, 3,657 students were enrolled in FCS, 834 in SUS.
20% of former foster youth will attend college and of that, only 3-11% will graduate.

3. Barriers to Retention
Lack financial and emotional support from a caring adult
Uncertain how to ask for help
Study skills and other basic know-how not well developed
Difficulty navigating college system
Most are first-generation, low-income students
Housing instability- are more likely to experience homelessness
Foster youth are three times more likely to persist in college if they participate in a campus support program for foster youth

4. 2018 Annual Report on Florida DCF Tuition & Fee Exemption Student Success:

5. 2018 Annual Report on Florida DCF Tuition & Fee Exemption Student Success (continued):

6. 2018 Annual Report on Florida DCF Tuition & Fee Exemption Student Success (continued):

7. 2018 Annual Report on Florida DCF Tuition & Fee Exemption Student Success (continued):

8. Fostering Achievement Program at SPC Framework
1. Campus Navigation
2. Academic & student Services Support
3. Student Engagement & Support
4. Campus Resources
5. Community Partnerships & Resources

9. Student Engagement & Support Community Partnerships & Resources
Fostering Achievement Program at SPC:
Campus Navigation
Campus Map
Inform students of important campus policies, opportunities, and resources
Primary Points of Contact for Academic/Career Advising, Financial Aid, Student Support Services, etc.
Academic Support
• Academic Coaching/Advising
• Connection to important campus resources, including tutoring, learning support centers, workshops
Student Engagement & Support
Assistance with On-boarding Process (Admissions, Financial Aid, Orientation, etc.)
One-on-one Mentoring
Mapping out a plan
Follow up during session
Creating space and opportunities to connect with other FAP students
Campus Resources • Food Pantry • Counseling and Psychological Services (BayCare, SAP) • Career Center; Professional Clothes Closet
On-campus student employment opportunities
Community Partnerships & Resources
• Community-Based Care agencies (Camelot, Eckerd, DCF)
* Guardian ad Litem
* Ready for Life Pinellas
* 211
* Safe Housing options
* Employment Opportunities off campus

10. Designated support on each campus Student Support Programs
Supporting Foster Youth & Homeless Youth
Collaboration is Key.
Admissions & Records
Academic Advising
Financial Aid
Designated support on each campus
Student Support Programs
Outreach Programs & Initiatives
Community Partners

11. How Can You Help Foster Youth on Your Campus?

12. Educate Tomorrow College Coaching Program
VIDEO
Educate Tomorrow, Single Stop USA and Miami Dade College teamed up to start the Educate Tomorrow at Single Stop, Miami Dade College program to offer holistic support to former foster and homeless youth who are determined to successfully complete a college degree program. The Educate Tomorrow program at Miami Dade College focuses on the entire student; academics and finances but also housing, well-being, employment and community. Together with this approach students are persisting and retaining at higher levels than their peers.

13. Developing a Support Network on your Campus
Who is your population? What are their needs?
Gain an understanding of how the DCF and Homeless waiver is processed on your campus.
Who is the liaison on your campus?
Develop a committee to discuss student needs and resources
Admissions, Financial Aid, VP of Student Affairs, Campus Coach
Evaluate current resources & discuss how you can streamline information for students

14. Campus Network Model to Support Youth From Care

15. Florida Reach FB Group: Florida Department of Children & Families
Resources
Positive Pathways Website:
Florida Reach FB Group:
Positive Pathways/Florida Reach Twitter:
Florida Department of Children & Families
programs/independent-living/tuition--fee-exemptions

16. Questions? Contact Information: