If a child was enrolled or participated in a preschool or early intervention program prior to his or her entry into foster care, the foster parent and case manager will work collaboratively to ensure that the child remains at the specific school to maintain a sense of normalcy for the child. When this is not feasible, the case manager will work with the foster parent to locate another program that will meet the developmental needs of the child. 

Georgia law requires that all children between the ages of five and 18 be enrolled in and attend school. The foster parent is responsible for enrolling all school-aged foster children in classes immediately upon initial placement or change in placement. DFCS policy requires school attendance beginning at age five. Enrollment in school must occur immediately. A child must not miss a single day of school due to initial placement or changes in placement. The case manager will provide all information and documentation needed for enrollment. As a foster parent, you will fill the parenting role for the child at school in most circumstances. 

However, there may be some instances when the child’s case manager will need to be directly involved with the school, as well. Determination will be made on a case-by-case basis. 

Items required for enrollment depend on the child’s age, grade level, and individual circumstances.

These may include the following:

• Certified copy of the child’s birth certificate 
• Current immunization records 
• Current medical records, including vision and dental 
• Proof of current residence 
• Current transcript or report card 
• Other documentation as required by the receiving school

As an active foster parent of a school-aged child, your responsibilities will include:

• Helping with and/or checking the child’s homework 
• Signing various scholastic documents,such as report cards, teacher correspondence, etc. 
• Attending and participating in PTA meetings and other school functions and activities 
• Keeping the child’s case manager informed of his or her progress and/or challenges in school 
• Providing a comfortable and suitable place for the child to work on homework. There should be a specific time during each day that the child spends on schoolwork 
• Maintaining an account of the child’s school expenses and all receipts to be submitted with your monthly invoice 
• Serving as a surrogate should the child receive special education

Challenges including truancy, emotional issues, or special education needs require collaboration with the child’s case manager, foster parents, parents, and appropriate school personnel. 

Please discuss all matters regarding private school enrollment or homeschooling with your case manager.

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