In San Diego County 48% of foster youth graduate high school each year compared with the average high school graduation rate of 87%. To help bridge that gap, the Fostering Academic Success in Education (FASE) program was developed. The program is a collaboration between the County of San Diego Child Welfare Services, the Health and Human Services Agency, the San Diego County Office of Education, and the Sweetwater Union High School District, to provide youth in foster care the support they need to achieve educational success in high school, post-secondary education, and beyond.  

The Fostering Academic Success in Education program aims to build an educational support system for youth in foster care by pairing students with an additional social worker, called an Educational Social Worker. The Educational Social Worker works to address the youth’s educational needs, including a range of supportive services, such as tutoring referrals, technology, and financial aid guidance.  

During the 2021-2022 school year, 19 eligible youth enrolled in the Fostering Academic Success in Education program at Castle Park Middle and Castle Park High School, with 74% of students improving their grade point average by the end of the program year.  

It can be more challenging to find homes for teens in foster care. One teen boy was waiting for a placement when a family became available near Castle Park High School. Due to the many challenges this boy had faced in his young life, his educational history was significantly lacking. This was concerning for these first-time resource parents. The family was able to meet with an Educational Social Worker as part of the Fostering Academic Success in Education program. The program helped the family feel fully supported, sure that their new foster son would be given every opportunity to thrive educationally.  

Student Testimonials:

What is one thing that went especially well in Fostering Academic Success in Education? 

“The FASE social worker got me a tutor, helped me make goals, and get good grades.”  

“I was able to express my emotions.” 

 “When I got suspended, the social worker talked to my caregiver and principal so I could go back to school.” 

What would you tell youth considering joining Fostering Academic Success in Education? 

“100% join because of all it does to help you.” 

“FASE can help you with services to get good grades and goals like going to college.” 

“In FASE you feel safer. You feel comfortable and people care for you.” 

In FY 2021-2022, the program was approved to expand into additional schools in the Sweetwater Union High School District, including Sweetwater High School, Granger Middle School and National City Middle School. Child Welfare Services is also working with the Escondido Union School District and the Escondido Union High School District to expand into North County. Additional Education Social Workers were hired to support the Fostering Academic Success in Education program in these districts. 

To learn more about Fostering Academic Success in Education and other programs Child Welfare Services has to offer, visit: https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/hhsa/programs/cs/child_welfare_services.html