BOSTON (AP) — A study finds that thousands of foster children in Massachusetts are struggling in the classroom, and it’s partly due to financial constraints and bureaucratic inefficiencies.
The report issued by state Auditor Suzanne Bump on Tuesday recommends that the state assume the full cost of educating foster children. It also calls for improved communication between the Department of Children and Families and local school officials about the needs of foster children, many of whom bounce between school districts and suffer from emotional trauma.
The report says about 45 percent of the approximately 6,800 Massachusetts foster children require specialized education plans, but a “complex bureaucracy” makes it difficult for school districts, particularly in low-income areas, to provide services.
The study says foster children are more prone to absenteeism and school disciplinary actions.
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