Inside the Foster Parent Journey — Daily Realities, Challenges, and Successes

In this episode of EduVoices: Championing Foster Futures, we welcome Dr. Selenda Cumby, Assistant Professor in Educational Leadership and former foster caregiver, for an in-depth conversation on the realities of foster parenting. This episode explores the lived experiences of foster parents, including what motivates individuals to foster, what daily life in a foster home looks like, and how foster families navigate relationships, trauma-informed care, and collaboration with schools and support systems. Dr. Cumby shares honest reflections on the challenges and rewards of foster care, along with real success stories that highlight the impact stable, caring adults can have in a child’s life. Listeners will gain insight into foster parent sustainability, child well-being, and the importance of strong educational and community support for children in care. This episode is valuable for foster parents, educators, CASA volunteers, child welfare professionals, and anyone passionate about supporting youth in foster care. If you care about foster care, child advocacy, education for foster youth, or strengthening outcomes for vulnerable children, this conversation offers both practical insight and inspiration.