This report lays the groundwork for new research priorities for improving policies and practices related to the educational outcomes of students in foster care.

Based on interviews with twelve nationally recognized researchers and other experts in education, child welfare, and related policy and practice areas, this report describes the existing research gaps that contribute to the generally dismal education outcomes of students in foster care.

The report also calls for more and better research using a number of different approaches, including experimental, longitudinal, case, naturalistic, demonstration, and implementation studies, to encourage new thinking regarding education while in foster care.