February 2026 Issue 95

International Day of Women and Girls in Science

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, observed annually on February 11th, is a celebration of the achievements of women in science and a call to action for greater gender equality in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. Women have made remarkable contributions to science throughout history, yet they remain underrepresented in STEM professions. The International Day of Women and Girls in Science aims to challenge stereotypes, break gender biases, and inspire girls to pursue careers in science-related fields. By encouraging diversity in STEM, we unlock new perspectives and innovative solutions to global challenges. As we commemorate this day, it's crucial to encourage and inspire the next generation of female scientists. Parents play a pivotal role in fostering their daughters' interest in STEM activities.

• Provide Positive Role Models: Introduce your daughters to successful women in STEM. Share stories of renowned scientists, engineers, and technologists to inspire them and showcase the diverse opportunities available in these fields.
• Expose Them to STEM Experiences: Attend science museums, workshops, and STEM events. These experiences expose children to the excitement of science and provide them with real-world examples of STEM applications.
• Support Their Interests: Identify your daughter's specific STEM interests and support them. Whether it's astronomy, coding, biology, or engineering, nurturing their passions will help build confidence and enthusiasm.
• Connect with Female Mentors: Seek out mentorship opportunities with women working in STEM. Connecting with role models can provide valuable insights, guidance, and encouragement for aspiring young scientists.
• Foster Curiosity: Encourage curiosity by engaging in hands-on STEM activities. Create a learning environment that allows experimentation and exploration, sparking an interest in scientific concepts from an early age.
• Coding and Programming: Introduce basic coding concepts through games and interactive platforms. Websites like Code.org offer engaging resources for children to learn programming skills.
• Robotics and Engineering Kits: Invest in age-appropriate robotics or engineering kits. These hands-on activities allow children to build, design, and problem-solve while learning fundamental STEM principles.
• STEM Books, Movies, and Documentaries: Read STEM-themed books and watch movies and documentaries together. Choose materials that showcase diverse perspectives and highlight the achievements of women in science.

International Day of Women and Girls in Science serves as a reminder that every girl has the potential to contribute significantly to the world of STEM. By actively supporting and encouraging their daughters' interest in science, parents can play a pivotal role in breaking down barriers and creating a more inclusive and diverse future for women in STEM fields. Through engaging activities and positive reinforcement, we can empower the next generation of female scientists and innovators. Funding for classes/lessons, clubs/groups, camps, or certain park/event admission (aquarium, museums, etc.), may be available through Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation.

Black History Month

February is Black History Month. It presents the opportunity to learn, appreciate, and reflect on the strides that Black/African-Americans have made and to connect the children in your care with their culture. As most foster caregivers are aware, Arizona has more children in DCS out-of-home care than it has foster homes, even though the number of children in out-of-home care continues to decrease. The number of licensed foster caregivers has been trending down for the last several years, and the shortage has now reached a critical level. As of November 2025, there are 7,214 children in DCS out-of-home care with approximately 75% of those children residing in a family setting, which includes both licensed foster and unlicensed kinship homes. Although some of the remaining 25% of children in out-of-home care are in alternative settings, that leaves approximately 1,700 youth in congregate care (standard group homes, shelter, and QRTP settings). Within the population of children in DCS out-of-home care, there is disparity in the racial make-up of this population. Although Black/African-American children are only 5% of Arizona’s population, they make up 20% of our out-of-home care population. The Department's goal is to safely reduce the disparity ratio of Black/African-American to White from 4 to 3.8 (of every 1000) by August 2029. In order to meet the overall objective of reducing the disproportionality of Black/African-American children in out-of-home care, DCS needs the support of our community. Here’s how the foster care community can help: 1. Encourage family, friends, coworkers, other community members to become foster caregivers. Approximately 20% of children in out-of-home care are in congregate care settings, which means that we need more family homes. Caregivers do not need to be married. There is not an income threshold, nor do prospective caregivers have to own their home. They can learn more via the DCS website. While the foster community needs safe, caring homes and will welcome families of all backgrounds, a vital part of meeting a child’s needs is ensuring that their culture is maintained as much as possible. Children that live with families that share their racial, ethnic, and cultural background can help minimize their trauma. Black/African-American children represent 20% (1,560) of our out-of-home population, however less than 16% (327) of our licensed foster homes have at least one caregiver that identifies as Black/African-American. 2. If you are a licensed foster caregiver, consider adjusting your placement preferences. Of the 1,700 children currently in congregate care, the majority are teenagers, with approximately 25% being Black/African-American children. We all know that adolescence can be challenging for any youth. Taking on the unique needs of teenagers who have experienced the trauma of abuse and neglect, as well as navigating the foster care system, can be daunting. Teenagers often just need someone in their corner, someone to meet them where they are and support them into adulthood. Adolescents in out-of-home care are as valuable and lovable as any other teenager; they need someone who is willing to take a chance on them. Please consider opening up your age range and making the conscious decision to foster teens. Reach out to your licensing worker, as there are often open referrals for teens to move out of group homes into family homes, but if there is no immediate availability, the referral eventually expires without being fulfilled. Your licensing worker will reach out to the DCS Placement Administration on your behalf. If you need assistance facilitating this communication, email Warmline@azdcs.gov. 3. Additionally, if you are currently a licensed foster caregiver, support family connections. Statistically, Black/African-American children are less likely to be placed initially with kinship caregivers. When possible and appropriate, advocate for family members that come forward, whether they are interested in becoming a caregiver for the child or just want to be involved in the child’s life. Family connections are vital, particularly when a child is placed with a caregiver who does not share their cultural background. Encourage and facilitate contact as much as possible. Share information, ask questions, and support these natural connections. 4. There are plenty of other ways to support youth in out-of-home care if you are not able to open your home to them. Reach out to your local school. The school or district social worker will be familiar with the group homes in the area and can connect you with the group home manager. Perhaps you can plan and sponsor activities in the community for the youth or assist them with home cooked meals. If you would prefer to connect one-on-one, Arizonans for Children has a mentorship program and can pair you with a child in out-of-home care. If you are a member of a community organization such as a church or club or even your business or employer, you can organize activities for the children or arrange a drive for clothing, toys, etc. Several times a year, DCS hosts a Children’s Heart Gallery event where children who are available for adoption gather for a photo shoot and interview to be posted on the website to share with families interested in adoption. Volunteers are always appreciated, and you can email Volunteer@azdcs.gov for more information on these events or becoming involved in other ways. There are several ways to connect the children in your care to their culture or teach them about a different culture. Use Reasonable and Prudent Parenting Standards to determine what is age-/developmentally-appropriate for the children in your care.

• Read an educational book with them. There is a plethora of books that have been written for the sake of educating children about Black/African-American history and culture.
• Watch a movie with them. Film is a medium that can help introduce children to complex topics that are best experienced in a visual manner.
• Check out the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The Smithsonian recently launched the Searchable Museum, which has digitized the museum’s historical narratives, collections, and educational resources. NMAAHC also offers free online educational events on topics such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., The Black Panthers, African-Americans in World War II, and so much more.
• If you’re in the Phoenix area, the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center is worth a visit. It is a national historic site dedicated to the collection, documentation, preservation, study, and dissemination of the history and culture of African-Americans in Arizona. Just be sure to schedule your tour in advance!

There are also events throughout the state that everyone is welcome to attend to learn about and celebrate Black/African-American culture:

• Phoenix: Black History Month: Influential Figures Throughout History - 9am-4pm, daily through February. Children’s Museum of Phoenix, 215 N. 7th Street, Phoenix. Admission prices vary. childrensmuseumofphoenix.org - Celebrate Black History Month at Star Bar on the 2nd floor! Discover inspiring African and Black trailblazers whose creativity, leadership, and achievements have shaped history across generations. Explore their stories through books and posters that highlight their lasting impact in art, science, culture, and music, including the vibrant Harlem Renaissance! Then, bring the rhythm to life as you color jazz-inspired instrument pages—a fun way to honor history through art and imagination!
• Phoenix-Tucson: A Taste of Melanin - Feb. 1-28. Locations across Phoenix and Tucson. atasteofmelanin.org. - A Taste of Melanin is an immersive cultural experience and community movement that celebrates the creativity, influence, and brilliance that shape American culture. Designed to spark inspiration, connection, and collective growth, it highlights the past, present, and future of innovation, expression, and excellence within our communities. Through interactive exhibits, live performances, culinary experiences, creative workshops, and community-centered programming, A Taste of Melanin goes beyond entertainment. It creates space for cultural education, economic empowerment, and meaningful experiences that uplift, unite, and amplify voices, stories, and contributions that continue to define the American experience.
• Tucson: Merchant & Mission-Focused Marketplace - 5-7pm, Feb. 4. The Dunbar, 325 W. Second St., Tucson. Free. abctucsonaz.org - The event will feature 40+ Black-owned businesses and Black-led nonprofits that provide skills, services, and community-based support throughout Southern Arizona.
• Phoenix: PHX Teens Black History Month Celebration - 5-8pm, Feb. 5. Goelet A.C. Beuf Community Center, 3435 W. Pinnacle Peak Rd., Phoenix. Free. Ages 13-17. phoenix.gov - Join us in the teen room for a wonderful Black History Month celebration filled with fresh knowledge, music, and delicious food!
• Phoenix: First Fridays - 5-8pm, Feb. 6. Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. Free - phxart.org - Join us as we celebrate Black History Month with an evening of storytelling, poetry, and creative connection. Experience community, reflection, and artistry as we fill our galleries with live performance and hands-on artmaking.
• Phoenix: Black Love: The Exhale at Desert Botanical Garden - 6-9pm, Feb. 7. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. $14.95-$34.95. dbg.org. - Black Love: The Exhale is a storytelling and live music experience that celebrates the richness, resilience and range of Black love in the heart of the desert. Now in its fourth year at Desert Botanical Garden, Centered.PHX returns with a new offering that honors Black love as Black History. Featuring Black couples from across Arizona, the event highlights real stories of connection, commitment, growth and joy during Black History Month.
• Phoenix: Celebrate Hip Hop at the Musical Instrument Museum - 9am-5pm, Feb. 14-16. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. Included with museum admission of $10-$20 (free for age 3 and younger). mim.org. - Celebrate the spirit of hip hop with high-energy performances, workshops, and dance battles featuring the iconic Furious Styles Crew, acclaimed dance group the Jukebox, Grammy-nominated rapper Mega Ran, and so much more!
• Phoenix: Can I Kick It? - 3-8pm, Feb. 28. Civic Space Park, 424 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. Free. dtphx.org. - This outdoor experience includes a screening of the classic movie "Men in Black" scored live by DJ duo Shaolin Jazz. There also will be shopping at the Buy Black Marketplace by Archwood Exchange and a fashion show hosted by the Garment League. Bring a blanket and enjoy a night that blends film, music and fashion in the heart of downtown.

IMPORTANT CHP DENTAL PLAN UPDATE

As of 1/1/2026, Mercy Care DCS CHP has a new dental network, Liberty Dental. DCS CHP members can continue seeing their current dentist if that dentist contracts with Liberty Dental. Letters went out from Liberty Dental on 12/30/2025 with information on the network change and the child’s listed dental provider.  Some DCS Specialists will be receiving an email version of the letter for a small number of youth whose address was not on file at the time of mailing. Please keep an eye out for those as well as be aware of the potential change and any impact to youth in care. DCS CHP members may see any dentist in the Liberty Dental network. There is no need to call Liberty Dental prior to seeing a participating primary care dentist. Note: If the listed provider is not the child’s preferred dental provider, please verify that the child’s preferred dental provider is in the Liberty Dental network prior to scheduling an appointment and being seen. For questions, contact Mercy Care DCS CHP Member Services by emailing DCS@mercycareaz.org or calling (602) 212-4983 or 1 (833) 711-0776 (TTY 711) between 8am to 5pm Monday through Friday.

Adoption Tax Credit

Tax season is coming up quickly. Be prepared and knowledgeable regarding how foster care and adoption affect your tax preparation. Note: DCS employees are NOT tax professionals and CANNOT answer tax questions. Your assigned Specialist can provide you with the SSN of the children in your care or a letter stating placement dates if an audit occurs. Consult a tax professional for further questions.

• IRS Topic 607: Adoption Credit
• IRS Publication 4694: Raising Grandchildren
• IRS Qualifying Child Rules
• 1040.com Foster Parent Tax Guide

Post-Permanency Supports Orientation

Arizonans for Children Free Foster Festival

Free Hair Services for Foster Youth

SWAPPOW Skateboard Series

Mayfly Project

High-Five

If you want to recognize a foster family, a licensing worker or agency, DCS Specialist/Supervisor or other employee, community partner, attorney, CASA, judge, mentor, or other fostering community member, please fill out the High-Five Nomination Form linked below.

League of Extraordinary Grandparents

ASA Now

ASA Now is a non-profit organization that ADVOCATES for, SUPPORTS, and ASSISTS children and families impacted by foster care. We are passionate about providing support to families and professionals by restoring hope and empowering them to better serve these children in need.

Warmline Supports Kinship and Foster Families

The Foster Parent Warmline is available for kinship families and licensed foster parents. While not an emergency number, Warmline staff can assist with information, timely communication, and support. It is not intended to discourage or replace direct and regular communication between the DCS Specialist and the out-of-home caregiver. You can reach the Warmline by calling 1-877-KIDSNEEDU (1-877-543-7633). Please be prepared with your name, the child's name, DOB, and dates of placement/departure, as well as an explanation of the issue. The Warmline is manned by staff Monday-Friday 8am-5pm (AZ time), excluding state holidays. You may also send an email to Warmline@azdcs.gov and include the above information.

Children's Heart Gallery

More than 70 percent of the children in need of forever families are adopted by their relatives or foster parents. For the remainder, special recruitment efforts like the Heart Gallery are used to connect them with a forever family.

The children featured in the Heart Gallery represent all ethnic groups and range in age from toddlers to teenagers. Some have special behavioral or medical needs, some are without siblings, and others are in groups of siblings.

Damarcus and Lehliana