High school is a time of exploration, learning and growth. It is an opportunity for teens to think about life after graduation, and to prepare for their future career.

Preparing for a post-secondary career is a challenge for students living in foster care. They often drop out of school; those who do receive a high school diploma are less likely to go on to postsecondary education. Both of these outcomes limit their employment options.

Did you know:

*Only 58% of Indiana’s foster children will graduate from high school by age 19. (Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative)

*Less than 50% of Indiana’s foster children will be employed at the age of 24. (Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative)

Resources are available to help you provide career guidance for the teens in your care.

It is critical that foster children are supported in their educational goals, and are supported in making plans for life after graduation. Talk with the people supporting you and your foster children – including the Adult & Child Therapeutic Foster Care staff, and school guidance counselors. The Indiana Youth Institute has also provided some great guidance on how to help any teen prepare for post-secondary success. It’s an excellent resource for any adult involved in a middle or high school-age student’s life.

Download the Indiana Youth Institute’s “Quick Guide” today! 

Also explore: postsecondary preparation resources available in the IYI library; Trip to College; Drive of Your Life

Comcast is offering Internet Essentials, a low-cost internet and computer solution to provide an equal opportunity for every child.

Comcast offers $9.95 monthly internet services and laptops at a subsidized rate for use of the whole household.

The program is available for K-12 students who are eligible for reduced or free school lunch programs.

MCCOY’s 2014 Youth Activity Directory is available!
It includes a comprehensive list of youth services and programs that highlight activities supporting academic achievement, healthy development and positive outcomes for youth.

http://www.mccoyouth.org/youth-activity-directory.html

Communities in central Indiana offer lots of wonderful free and low-cost family activities. Trips to parks, libraries, lakes, and outdoor summer concert and movie events are all great ways to spend time together, without emptying your wallet.

If you’re looking for something out-of-the ordinary, consider the special discounts offered to foster families by The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, and Marengo Cave.