Education

Connecting in the Classroom

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Galveston County represents the best interests of children in foster care and supports their families in creating safety. In an ongoing effort to ensure these children have the proper educational assessments and academic support; CASA recently formed an education committee to partner with the school districts to better connect in the classroom.

The education committee will start by visiting school counselors and eventually teachers to share the mission and message of CASA and how they can most effectively collaborate for the best interest of the child.

How does a CASA volunteer interface with a school and a teacher? A CASA may visit the child at school and contacts the teacher(s) for progress information and a copy of the report card each reporting period. A CASA attends Admission, Review and Dismissal (ARD) meetings, as needed, to advocate and support the child’s academic needs.

A CASA will also assist the teacher if she or he needs assistance being in touch with the caregiver. In general, a CASA volunteer is there to provide educational support to the caregiver and assist with an open line of communication with school staff.