Foster & Kinship Care Education/Guardian Scholars Program

Welcome to the Foster and Kinship Care Education Guardian Scholars Program!

Our mission is to wholeheartedly address the educational needs of foster/kinship youth, resource parents, adoptive parents, relative care providers, non-relative extended-family care providers, and legal guardians. We are dedicated to providing enriching events, seminars, and workshops that empower caregivers to make a lasting positive impact on the lives of our youth. Our ultimate aim is to cultivate caregivers who embody the four pillars of our program: Enlightenment, Effectiveness, Efficiency, and Exemplariness.

With warm regards,
Dr. Dione Washington, FKCE Director

About the Foster and Kinship Care Education Guardian Scholars Program

Foster and Kinship Care Education (FKCE Program)

The Foster and Kinship Care Education (FKCE) Program has been operating at LATTC since 1999. This California-based program provides training and support to caregivers, relatives, and others involved in caring for children. The primary aim of the program is to boost caregivers' expertise, capabilities, and skills to enhance the level of care provided to children. The program includes workshops, courses, and materials that address areas like child development, trauma-informed care, effective disciplinary approaches, and educational support. These resources help caregivers better understand and fulfill the needs of children. Supported by the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office, the FKCE Program is accessible at community colleges across the state at no cost, aiming to empower caregivers in their essential role of creating safe and nurturing environments for children.

The Resource Family Approval Program is a part of LATTC's FKCE Program and offers certification training for individuals or families interested in becoming adoptive parents in California. Resource Family Approval (RFA) is an in-depth process, and LATTC's RFA Workshop assists participants in comprehending the RFA process along with its requirements and expectations for approval as a resource family. During RFA training, participants are educated on the social duties of being a resource family, the steps for RFA approval, and the required documentation. Training also covers topics related to caring for children, understanding their needs, navigating the child welfare system, and accessing support services. Its aim is to educate and equip families seeking approval to become resource families, empowering them with the expertise and abilities to establish a secure atmosphere for children.

The Guardian Scholars Program

Moreover, the Guardian Scholars Program (GSP) at LATTC, established in 2009, assists current and former foster youth in their pursuits. The program aims to provide individuals with resources, guidance, and support necessary for their personal success. This program empowers participants to reach their potential academically by offering assistance with supplies, mentorship programs, and academic support services tailored to college challenges such as workshops, one-on-one counseling sessions, and mentoring opportunities.

GSP supports adults aged 16–35 who have been in or are currently part of the state's foster care system, ensuring they receive support to help them on their educational paths.