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106 SUPERINTENDENT ANNUAL REPORTSUPPORTING STUDENTS IN FOSTER CAREThe Foster Care Liaison Team within the Department of Safe Schools provided District-wide support to more than 975 students temporarily placed with a non-custodial parent, a relative, a licensed foster home, a temporary shelter, or one of 20 group homes. District-certified teachers served as tutors, using effective strategies, relevant materials, and data-driven approaches to provide after-school educational support.Tailored to individual student needs, these activities focus on:%u2022 Skill Remediation: Addressing specific academic gaps to improve overall performance.%u2022 Homework Help: Guiding students through daily assignments to build confidence.%u2022 Academic Mentoring: Fostering positive relationships that encourage long-term educational engagement.%u2022 Computer-based Lessons: Using digital platforms to reinforce classroom instruction.Staff provided academic support to eight group homes, including four therapeutic centers, with targeted outreach to Place of Hope, Safe Harbor, and HomeSafe. More than 55 residents received more than 400 hours of tutoring. Instruction aligned with targeted academic goals, emphasizing reading proficiency through structured literacy interventions, comprehension, and fluency. Educators also strengthened foundational math skills, including number sense, problem-solving, and grade-level mathematical reasoning. Additional efforts included distributing backpacks, uniforms, and supplies to ensure learners are fully equipped to participate in and succeed at school while in foster care.TEEN MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AIDTeen Mental Health First Aid (tMHFA) is an in-person training program that equips high school students with skills to identify and respond to mental health challenges and substance use concerns among peers. Developed by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, the program addresses research indicating that adolescents are more likely to share personal challenges with friends than with adults. Participants learn a five-step action plan to support classmates facing difficulties, including suicidal ideation. Rather than teaching students to diagnose conditions or handle issues independently, the curriculum focuses on recognizing behavioral shifts and the importance of involving a trusted adult. In 2021, the Department of Justice awarded a grant that enabled the Department of Safe Schools to continue providing these resources to grade 10 students across District campuses. During FY26, more than 1,500 students received training that equipped them to navigate topics such as bullying, emotional distress, and school violence.By establishing a culture of peer support and safety, these efforts reinforce the District%u2019s commitment to student well-being, ensuring that every individual feels seen, heard, and supported.TEENAGE PARENT PROGRAMThe Teenage Parent Program (TPP) is a specialized, voluntary initiative managed by the Department of Safe Schools. It provides a comprehensive framework of educational support, childcare transition services, and access to health and social services for pregnant and parenting students. A multidisciplinary approach helps teen mothers and fathers meet high school graduation requirements while maintaining parental responsibilities. Collaboration among families, students, school-based faculty, District administrators, and community partners drives academic achievement and meaningful community integration.To deliver intensive wraparound support, department personnel actively participate in parent or guardian