Who Says Yes? Educational Decision-Making and School Stability in Foster Care
Students in foster care have clear educational rights under federal and state law – yet confusion about who can exercise those rights continues to create barriers, delays, and legal risk. This session, co-presented by Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) and the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), will provide a practical overview of federal and state foster care education laws, with a focused deep dive into the designation of educational liaisons and school stability rights. Using real-world scenarios, participants will unpack common misunderstandings about best interest determination meeting requirements, and educational decision-making – including who may (and may not) make special education decisions for students in foster care. Designed for judges, attorneys, social workers, and education partners, this session will clarify roles, strengthen cross-system practice, and help ensure students receive timely and legally sound educational support.