Story perspectives

Substitute Teacher Adopts 11-Year-Old Foster Child in Florida

6/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Jackie Coombe, a substitute teacher, finalized the adoption of 11-year-old Jaden Andrew Cohen in Volusia County, Florida, in May 2024.
Coombe taught Jaden as a substitute teacher for nearly two years before the adoption.
Coombe first met Jaden at Pathways Elementary School in October 2023 and learned he was in foster care in spring 2024.
Department of Children and Families reported more than 15,000 children were in Florida’s foster care system last year.

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Story summary

Jackie Coombe, a substitute teacher, finalized the adoption of 11-year-old Jaden Andrew Cohen in Volusia County, Florida, in May 2024.
Coombe taught Jaden as a substitute teacher for nearly two years before the adoption.
Coombe first met Jaden at Pathways Elementary School in October 2023 and learned he was in foster care in spring 2024.
Department of Children and Families reported more than 15,000 children were in Florida’s foster care system last year.