The Fayette

Youth Protection Homes staff invited Fayette County teachers, counselors

and principals for a luncheon and planning session. The Youth Protection

Homes provide shelter and healing to abused and neglected children. As

the new school year opened, the agency's percentage of elementary age

residents was much higher than in previous years.

"Many

times our children have gaps in their education because of too many absences,"

said Shea Lasiter, director of the Friday/Johnson programs. "Some

of them have had a series of foster placements that result in numerous

school changes. Others come from environments where education is not a

high priority."

The purpose

of the meeting was to foster communications between the program staff

and the schools in order to better meet the needs of the children.

"As teachers

we don't just have a job, we have a responsibility to every child,"

said North Fayette Elementary principal Louis Robinson. "For foster

children the need is greater. We are aware that the impressions that we

leave on these children are life-long."

Mary Davis,

Director of Fayette County Department of Family and Children's Services,

was also on hand to answer questions about the foster care system and

the role that DFACS plays as legal custodian of the children who live

in group homes.

The homes have

tutors who work with the children and also spend time on building skills

like multiplication or reading. Volunteers also help by donating books,

school supplies and educational software.

Those wishing

to volunteer in any of these areas should call 770-460-6652.