Association for Public Policy Analysis & Management

Melany Justice

October 9, 2018

Joseph R. Biden Jr. School of Public Policy and Administration

University of Delaware

Newark, Delaware

Abstract

There is a significant number of youth in foster care throughout the nation; many of whom will “age out” between the ages of 18-21 depending on which state they reside in. Much like their counterparts, many foster children may aspire to pursue post-secondary education. Unlike their counterparts, however, students in foster care do not possess the same support system that others naturally have. Navigating the process of selecting a college and major through enrolling at an institution and matriculating through successfully are already challenging for traditional students. As a result, students in foster care are far less likely to pursue or complete higher levels of education. This policy brief will provide an historical overview of foster care in the United States, and information regarding the current state of post-secondary education for foster youth in the state of Delaware. Following a broad analysis of funding provided to foster youth in Oregon, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, this paper will recommend a supplemental aid program for foster youth unique to Delaware.