Yahir, 13 years old, NJ

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Yahir was removed from his parents earlier this year due to concerns of abuse and neglect. After being adopted out of state, the adoption was disrupted when the adoptive parents were unable to manage Yahir’s behaviors. Yahir was then adopted by a family in the same area he was removed from, but his behaviors continued to be a challenge. Throughout his life, Yahir has been homeschooled and did not receive the educational support he needed, leaving him significantly behind academically. Yahir’s resource parent is committed to supporting him by sitting with him, completing lessons together and encouraging his progress so he can work toward catching up with his peers. Yahir is an active and energetic child who loves playing soccer. This year will be his first time attending a traditional school setting and while he is excited about this new opportunity, he also feels nervous knowing he is behind academically.

Although Yahir is 13 years old, he is currently reading at a third-grade level and working hard to bridge the gap. His CASA volunteer recently met with his teachers, who strongly recommended the Epic! reading program to help him build his literacy skills. A one-year subscription to Epic! will give Yahir access to thousands of engaging books that meet him where he is, boosting his reading confidence and helping him feel fully prepared for school.