I Beat the Odds: From Homelessness, to The Blind Side, and Beyond

Michael OherNonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2011

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1. As of 2021, there are over 391,000 children and young adults in the foster care system in the US. While only 18-22% of the general population is estimated to suffer from mental health issues, up to 80% of children in foster care have significant mental health struggles. Why do you think this discrepancy exists? What do you know about the foster care system that might explain this staggering statistic?

Teaching Suggestion: Ensure that your students have a basic understanding of the foster care system in the US, and how it relates to, but is distinct from, the adoption system in the US. Students should understand that it is widely accepted that the foster care system is broken and, as such, contributes to the Plight of Foster Children. What’s more, you should be aware that some of your students may be in foster homes or may have loved ones who have experienced the foster care system. You may want to read the Child Placement Agency’s recommendations on having sensitive, open classroom discussions on matters involving foster care in “