'A whole new world’: New law lets Pennsylvania foster kids attend college tuition-free

By LAURIE MASON SCHROEDER
THE MORNING CALL
JUL 25, 2019

Dustin Moore, 19, Lansford talks about a new law that allows foster kids to go to Pennsylvania colleges tuition-free Thursday, July 11, 2019 at the Valley Youth House in Bethlehem. (Rick kintzel/The Morning Call)

Like many 19 year olds, Dustin Moore is having trouble deciding on a career. He’s narrowed it down to either electrical engineering or social work, but since both jobs require a college degree, Moore put his plans on the back burner after graduating from high school last year.

In foster care since he was 14, Moore, of Lansford, has been too busy preparing for his 21st birthday, when he’ll be out of the system and expected to survive on his own. Finding a place to live and food comes first, Moore said. He figured he’d go to college in a few years, when he could afford it.

“I was going to wait until I had more of my own money saved up. Cause I don’t want to worry about getting a loan.”

A new Pennsylvania law, which allows foster kids to attend college tuition-free, could change Moore’s plans. Signed into law by Gov. Tom Wolf on June 28, the Fostering Independence Through Education Act waives tuition for youth who were in foster care at age 16 or older, including those who have “aged out” of the system or been adopted.

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