From Foster Care to PhD: Overcoming Education Hurdles with Dr. Danisha Keating

This week’s conversation explores how being in foster care impacts education. Dr. Danisha Keating is a former foster youth, a CEO, an international motivational speaker, and an author. She shares her personal journey and the challenges faced by foster youth in education. Dr. Keating also discusses the emotional struggles and trauma that foster youth experience, as well as the common lack of understanding and support from teachers and educators who often don't understand the implications of foster care. The conversation explores the importance of advocating for foster youth and helping them find their passion.
Dr. Danisha's book, 'From Foster to PhD: Letters from a Suitcase,' aims to motivate foster youth and educate others about the emotional aspects of their experiences. The conversation also touches on the need for empathy, support, and resources for foster youth in their educational journey. Children in foster care often experience frequent school changes, resulting in significant academic setbacks. Studies show that foster youth are more likely to graduate high school at a lower rate and have significantly lower rates of post-secondary education compared to their peers.
The education gaps can be overwhelming for both foster parents and youth, but it's important to recognize that catching up may not always be realistic. Dr. Danisha shares more thoughts around different approaches at looking at gaps and prioritizing real needs. Danisha really highlights the role of advocacy as foster parents. The goal should be to help foster youth find value in their education and empower them to define their own path.
The three also discuss Danisha's new documentary film, '33 Roofs' that highlights (from her own story) the educational and homelessness barriers faced by foster youth and how people can support them.
Checkout Danisha's resources, book, and documentary:
www.danishakea...
Takeaways
Being in foster care has a significant impact on educational outcomes.
Foster youth face emotional struggles and trauma that affect their ability to succeed in school.
Teachers and educators need to understand and support foster youth in their educational journey.
Dr. Danisha Keating's book, 'From Foster to PhD: Letters from a Suitcase,' sheds light on the emotional aspects of being a foster youth and provides motivation and support.
Empathy, support, and resources are crucial for foster youth to overcome educational barriers. Children in foster care often experience frequent school changes, resulting in significant academic setbacks.
Foster youth have lower graduation rates and lower rates of post-secondary education compared to their peers.
Catching up on education may not be realistic, but filling in the gaps and providing support for current educational needs is crucial.
Advocacy for foster youth should involve listening to their needs and preferences and providing the necessary support.
Foster parents and teachers should take a case-by-case approach and understand the unique challenges and strengths of each youth.
The goal should be to help foster youth find value in their education and empower them to define their own path. Advocating for foster youth involves helping them find their passion and supporting them in pursuing it.
It is important to remove the stigma and shame around asking for help and tutoring.
Teaching foster youth how to advocate for themselves is crucial for their success.
Community support plays a significant role in overcoming the educational and homelessness barriers faced by foster youth.
The documentary '33 Rooms' sheds light on the challenges faced by foster youth and how people can help.
Learn more about being a foster or adoptive parent or supporting those who are in your community.
americaskidsbe...
Meet kids awaiting adoption.
americaskidsbe...
Please consider donating today to support our mission to dramatically improve the experiences and outcomes for kids in foster care.
americaskidsbe...