Federal law requires DFPS to have a plan to ensure educational stability for a child or youth in substitute care. In any placement, DFPS must consider whether the educational setting is appropriate and how close the placement is to the school the child or youth is enrolled in at the time of the placement or placement change. DFPS must coordinate with local schools and school districts to ensure that the child or youth remains in the same school he or she was attending at the time of the initial placement or any subsequent placement change, unless it is not in the child or youth’s best interests to remain in that school.

42 U.S.C. §675

When it is determined that a placement change will occur, DFPS contacts the foster care liaison at the school where the child is currently enrolled to determine if it is in the best interest of the child to remain in that school.

For more information about education services for children and youth in substitute care, see 15000 Education for Children.

See the Placement Process Resource Guide – Ensuring Educational Stability.