This spring, students of all ages had to adapt to distance learning, online tutoring, and receiving academic help from caregivers. Younger children in their formative years often need extra support outside of a traditional classroom setting. Luckily, 7-year-old foster youth “Amy”* has had the support of her Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer, Ronnie —this week’s “Inspiring CASAs” highlight.
CASA Ronnie was paired with Amy in April 2018. The stress of COVID-19 has proved to be difficult for Amy, and CASA Ronnie has remained especially mindful of her needs during this time.
Like many parents, Amy’s resource parents struggled to find the time to provide extra attention for her schooling. CASA Ronnie offered her support and began to video call frequently with the first grader so they could practice reading to each other. In addition, she purchased a workbook for the young girl and offered rewards when pages were finished. Amy became extremely motivated by this extra care and attention, and even her social worker took notice of her new positive attitude towards learning.
Late last year, CASA Ronnie learned that one of Amy’s teachers at school was interested in having Amy placed with her. Due to some existing placement complications, the opportunity did not go through at the time. However, when Amy’s current resource parents gave notice that the stress of COVID-19 and distance learning, among other issues, led them to the decision that they could no longer care for Amy, CASA Ronnie remembered the teacher. Ronnie immediately got into contact with Amy’s social worker, and the new placement with her school teacher was approved.
Amy and her new foster mother are both excited, and CASA Ronnie looks forward to the opportunity for Amy to continue developing her love of learning and receiving the educational support she needs.
Like CASA Ronnie, you can provide much-needed support to a child in foster care during this time of increased need. To learn how you can become a CASA volunteer, sign up for an online Volunteer Information Session today.
*Names and other identifying features have been changed to protect confidentiality