The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) contains key provisions to promote educational stability and success for students living in foster care. The Arizona Department of Education website is a comprehensive resource to learn more about the laws and guidelines that apply to educators and others supporting students.

https://www.azed.gov/fostercare

One of the responsibilities of a CASA volunteer is to help ensure the best decisions are made for youth regarding traditional and specialized education. Given the turmoil youth may feel due to removal from their home, ensuring a stable and appropriate educational environment can be crucial.

January – Human Trafficking Prevention Month

Dedicated to raising awareness, increasing prevention efforts and providing more support to survivors. Youth living in foster care and group homes are particularly vulnerable. These children lack stability, proper oversight and may be tempted by a false sense of security offered by the predator. Many underage trafficked youth also have a history of sexual abuse.

A CASA volunteer may be the only adult who knows the teen well enough to even recognize changed behaviors as warning signs.

To understand more about the risk factors and warning signs: Teen Sex Trafficking Awareness Training Brochure

If you suspect human trafficking contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888