For most, COVID-19 has completely changed the way people approach their everyday activities, such as attending school. This disruptive turn of events has drastically changed the way education is being delivered, with many school systems switching to a virtual or remote learning platform. For many children and families, these needed yet significant changes have added challenges that many are seeing impact children’s ability to succeed in school.
In response to this, our newest Benchmarks’ Partnering for Excellence (PFE) partners in Crittium (Craven DSS, Pitt DSS, and Trillium Health Resources) gathered responses regarding the challenges of virtual learning from parents, caregivers, and foster parents that are currently involved with the Department of Social Services. Foster parents and teachers alike have stated that they have had a difficult time keeping children engaged and acknowledged that virtual work can be difficult for children, especially for those in foster placements. Foster parents and caregivers felt they would benefit from additional resources and information that would help them, and their kids, navigate this new academic landscape.
In an attempt to alleviate some of the concerns brought about by caregivers in their responses the Crittium Leadership Team has worked to compile a list of community resources to aid in helping caregivers best support their school-aged children. From these efforts the team was able to create the COVID Resource Caregiver Guide and Tutoring Resource List. The COVID Resource Caregiver Guide provides helpful tips for schooling kids from home, links to additional educational resources, and interactive learning games. The Tutoring Resource List outlines tutoring and educational support resources and programs available locally. It outlines associated costs, eligibility criteria, and contact information to make the resource as “user friendly” as possible. These resources have been shared with parents, and caregivers to help assist in making this school year a success.
In an effort to help bridge the academic gap in our communities, the team felt it was important to share the list with professionals who serve in helping role as well, such as social workers, care coordination, and clinicians who partner with DSSes to provide additional support to children who need it. The goal is that these documents will be “living”, evolving, and growing as we all learn to navigate the changes so frequently associated with this pandemic. Our hope is to share with other communities creative ways in which they can work collaboratively across multiple systems to serve and meet the needs of shared clients, children, and families.
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