Since she is going into her junior year I think this is the year she would be taking the PSAT and really start the planning part of college prep, next year will be ACT & SAT (taking those twice is a good idea as the score usually improves the second time), and completing applications, making decisions, etc. It's possible that she will qualify for fee waivers for some of the tests. My recommendation would be to talk to the guidance department at her high schoolin theory they should be able to provide all sorts of information about college planning timelines and financial aid. I think your caseworker should also be able to help with some of the FC specific financial aid stuffin my state we have a youth advocate (or something) like that who specifically works with teens (especially those aging out of foster care) to help them prepare for what comes after high schoolwhether that be college or entering the work force.

Junior or associates colleges are a great idea if she's not sure she wants to jump right into a 4-year program, but there are also other "Gap Year" programs out there if she isn't sure she wants to go straight from high school to collegeagain, something guidance counselors should have more information about.

As far as her not feeling like she needs to work for itI can so relate to that! My family was poor and my grades were ever so slightly above average with little effort on my part so I knew I would get all the financial aid I needed just by filling out a FAFSA, and I did: I actually did get some scholarships (I don't really know how) as well as grants and of course student loans. What I wish I could go back and tell my 17 year old self (not that I would have listened) is 1) don't go right to college, take a year (or two) and do something other than "school", and 2) if you don't NEED the student loansdon't take them. Yes, it is actually "good" debt but I'd rather have graduated with no debt. Just my opinion

Anyway, good luck, this is a very pivotal time in her life and I think it's great that you'll be able to support her through it!

http://adoptuskids.org/join-the-conversation/real-foster-care-and-adoption-stories/youth-and-foster-alumni/story?k=Sixto-Cancel

Something from a college kid. The ACT and SAT is usually done in your jr year of HS. Unless you live in a small community most systems I think offer several different dates to take the test But I would try and schedule this ASAP. .
Also most colleges will look at a students JUNIOR year grades since they will accept a student before they finish their Sr. year. So it there is ever a time for her to get her grades in line it's duriing this year of school.
I never used any of my free stuff from the foster system since I was adopted. But as I understand it FASFA (the governement free money/loan place) has grants for cases like this.
My older brother aged out and found the Army. It was good to him and they help with education when you get out.
JMO but it might be best if you can encourage her to a local college so she can continue to be a part of your family.
And from a former foster child, thanks for giving one of us a home and caring about us.

Any suggestions on getting her to realize the importance of her studies? C is incredibly smart, but has gotten into a habit of missing school. Plus, her boyfriend no longer goes to school, nor does he work. (Other than that, though, and having a messed-up family, we like the guy).

I'm a teacher, along with having grown up in a situation where education is important, but it would be good to get an I've-been-there's opinion. :)

I have thought about his alot since I read your lastest post the other day.
I like to draw and am very good at. In 9th grade the art teacher at school realized my talent and gave me strong encouragement to do something with my creativity. But then I found myself only doing well in art and the rest of my grades were in the'c' and 'd' range. (to this day I still hate math)
But when I moved in with the lady who would be my adopted mom things kind of changed as far as how I had to look at school. She believed in my abiltiy to do better and insisted on it. She followed up on my homework EVERY DAY. She talked with my teachers all the time and kept giving me the kicks in the butt to do better. I was told this is great work and good progress BUT...you can get a little better.
As I look back I realize my mom was talking to that art teacher about me. Between the two of them they gave me a confindence I didn't have before. Ya see NO ONE before gave a crap if I got an 'A' or an 'F'. I guess they just got me to believe in myself and to do my best. My last semester of high school I was on the honor roll and I currently have a 3.25 GPA in college.
Maybe just showing her you believe in her abiltiy to improve her school. Remember up to this point in her life she probably hasn't had anyone really care how her grades were.
My suggestion is for you to get very involved with her school work. Maybe ask some of her teachers their ideas on how to make her a better student. Is there one thing she in really really good at?
Just my thoughts. I wish both of you well.

Something else I forgot to mention. About her skipping school. I got caught by my mom skipping school one day. She wasn't happy about it and took most of my privilages away from me for a week or two. I know she won't let me drive, have my phone, no tv and she got her dad into with me and he told me that behavior was not appropriate and had to stop.
If she doesn't go to school let her know some how you don't approve. Maybe no boyfriend for a week or two or no computer?