Partnering with Purpose: 

As more children across the country are being raised by relatives or close family friends, schools are seeing a growing number of students from kinship caregiving households. These caregivers—grandparents, aunts, uncles, older siblings, or even close family friends—often step into the parenting role suddenly, without formal training or resources.

For these children, school can become one of the few consistent spaces in their lives. But their success depends not only on what happens in the classroom—it also depends on how well educators and kinship caregivers work together.

When schools and kinship families partner effectively, children benefit from stability, connection, and aligned support systems. Here are some best practices educators can use to foster collaboration with kinship caregivers and create a truly supportive learning environment:

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Lead with Empathy and Respect

Kinship caregivers often assume their roles during a family crisis, without the preparation or support that foster or adoptive parents may receive. Approach every conversation with compassion, patience, and a non-judgmental mindset. Avoid assumptions and recognize the emotional and logistical challenges caregivers may be navigating.

Try this: Begin communication with affirming statements like, “I appreciate all you're doing for [student’s name]. We want to work with you to make school a positive experience.”

Establish Open, Two-Way Communication

Kinship caregivers need to feel like valued partners—not just recipients of school updates. Set the tone early by offering multiple ways for them to reach out (calls, emails, in-person meetings, or text-based platforms). Regular, two-way communication fosters trust and keeps everyone informed.

Best practice: Schedule a check-in early in the school year to learn about the child’s history, strengths, and needs directly from the caregiver.

Be Flexible with Documentation and Participation

Many kinship caregivers do not have formal legal custody or guardianship, which can create barriers when enrolling children or accessing services. Be aware of these challenges and advocate for flexible school policies that prioritize the child’s best interests.

Helpful tip: Know your district’s guidelines for caregivers without legal custody—and share alternative pathways for engagement when appropriate.

Share Resources and Support

Caregivers may not be aware of services available through the school—such as counseling, free/reduced lunch programs, or academic interventions. Providing clear, accessible information about available resources can ease the burden on kinship families and strengthen the support network for the child.

Resource idea: Create a “Welcome to Our School” packet tailored for kinship caregivers, including key contacts and services.

Encourage Participation Without Pressure

While it's important to invite caregivers to participate in school events, parent-teacher conferences, or volunteer opportunities, recognize that many are balancing full-time jobs, health issues, or care for multiple children. Offer creative, flexible ways for caregivers to engage.

For example: Share recordings of classroom events or provide take-home materials for those who can’t attend in person.

Celebrate the Child’s Progress Together

Children in kinship care may not hear enough encouragement. Make a point to share positive updates, small wins, and academic milestones with their caregivers. This not only boosts the child’s confidence but also strengthens the caregiver-educator relationship.

Celebration tip: A quick email, handwritten note, or phone call to share a “bright spot” can go a long way.

Be a Connector

Sometimes, the most powerful thing an educator can do is connect a caregiver to a community resource—whether it’s a kinship support group, mental health provider, or food assistance program. A well-timed referral can ease stress and build long-term support for the whole family.

Partner idea: Know which local agencies support kinship families (such as the San Angelo Family Network) and share contact info when appropriate.

Conclusion

Kinship caregivers are heroes in the lives of the children they raise. As educators, we have the unique opportunity to stand beside them, offering consistency, compassion, and a collaborative spirit.

By building strong relationships with caregivers, we help create a bridge between home and school—a bridge that leads to resilience, healing, and lifelong success for children in kinship care.

Let’s commit to being partners, not just professionals, and together, we can create learning environments where every child feels safe, supported, and capable of thriving.