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OKLAHOMA CAPITOL -- Oklahoma’s foster children now have one less challenge to face in becoming self-reliant, productive adults. Legislation, signed into law last month, waives in state tuition for foster youth attending a college or vocational-technical school in Oklahoma.
"The intent of this bill is to provide these young people who have grown up without a family a stepping stone to a productive future," said Rep Mark Seikel who co-authored the bill with Sen. Bernest Cain. "This waiver will enable foster youth who have the initiative and the responsibility to pursue a degree in higher education. This is a great investment in our state’s future."
To be eligible, foster youth must be Oklahoma residents, have been in OKDHS custody for at least 9 months between the ages of 16 and 18 and cannot be older than 21.
They must also be in good academic standing and have graduated from high school or received their GED this year. Students have up to three years from their date of graduation to use the waiver. The may use the waiver until they either complete their baccalaureate degree, or until they reach the age of 26.
"Once these young people become 18 they are basically cut loose from the foster care system," said Claudia Hunter, State Independent Living Coordinator for the Department of Human Service. "They don’t have the luxury of a family to help them through college. This bill not only allows foster youth the chance to secure their future, but it strengthens the future of the state as well."
The waiver, which went into effect July 1, is available beginning with foster youth who graduated this year. If you would like information on becoming a foster parent, call your local OKDHS county office.
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