The AACPS Department of Pupil Personnel is compiling a book of stories from kinship caregivers to offer hope and support to families that are facing similar concerns. The book will offer stories from many families from all walks of life and share resources that are available within Anne Arundel County.
Kinship care is the raising of children by grandparents, other extended family members, and adults with whom they have a close family-like relationship such as godparents and close family friends because biological parents are unable to do so for serious family hardship.
“Serious family hardship” means:
- Death of a parent or legal guardian of the child;
- Serious illness of a parent or legal guardian of the child;
- Drug addiction of a parent or legal guardian of the child;
- Incarceration of a parent of legal guardian of the child;
- Abandonment by a parent or legal guardian of the child; or
- Assignment of a parent or legal guardian of a child to active military duty.
We want to hear from you!
Tell us about your experience in AACPS. Any caregiver or student who provides their story will have their name put into a drawing for one of five grants (up to $200 per grant) for their child to attend summer camp through Anne Arundel County Recreation and Parks.
Not sure what to write?
Below are some ideas to help get you started, whether you are a caregiver or a student:
I Am a Caregiver
- Why is the student in your care?
- How long have you been caring for your student(s)?
- What was the most difficult part of becoming a kinship care provider?
- What would you do differently during this process?
- What support did you receive and from whom?
- What supports are still needed to help you in caring for your child(ren)?
- What sacrifices have you made?
- What are some positive aspects that have come out of this experience?
- What do you like most about caring for your student?
- What advice would you give to someone in a similar situation?
I Am a Student
- How long have you been been with your caregiver?
- What support have you or your caregiver received from AACPS?
- What supports are still needed to help your family?
- What are some positive aspects that have come out of this experience?
- What do you like most about being with your caregiver?
- What advice would you give to someone in a similar situation?