With schools closed, students across California participated in distance learning and attended online classes. Fifteen-year-old foster youth, “Corina,”* is fortunate to be placed in a home that has reliable access to the internet. On top of this, her Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Nicole holds her educational rights and has continued to be actively involved in supporting Corina’s education during the COVID-19 crisis.
Prior to the pandemic, CASA Nicole had advocated tirelessly for Corina to receive special education services, something that has greatly benefited Corina’s learning experience. When Corina’s classes were transitioned online due to distance learning in late April, CASA Nicole opened a steady stream of communication between her, Corina, and Corina’s caregiver to ensure they had all the resources they needed for success. CASA Nicole also regularly contacted Corina’s teachers to ask how Corina was doing. Recently, one teacher mentioned that Corina had not turned in any work or attended any of the online class meetings. When CASA Nicole brought this up to her case youth, Corina admitted that it was difficult for her to keep track of assignment deadlines and class times.
Together, CASA Nicole and Corina brainstormed a solution. For their next virtual visit, the pair collaborated to create an online color-coded calendar containing all of Corina’s school assignment deadlines and class schedules. They had a great time working on this project over video chat and Corina showed excitement in putting the calendar to good use.
Not only was CASA Nicole able to come up with a great solution for Corina’s confusing online schedule, but the pair was able to bond in a creative and productive way. Like CASA Nicole, you can provide advocacy and support to a foster youth as they navigate both foster care and the effects of COVID-19. Sign up for an online Volunteer Information Session today to learn more.
For more information on Voices for Children’s current business operations and opportunities for virtual volunteer Information Sessions, please visit our COVID-19 Response page.
*Names and other identifying details have been changed to protect confidentiality.
