This guidebook provides comprehensive recommendations and clarifies the federal requirements outlined in the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) for supporting foster youth in schools. This guidance emphasizes collaboration between educational agencies and child welfare agencies to maintain school stability, coordinate transportation, and facilitate immediate enrollment for students impacted by foster care placements. It offers best practices for academic support, individualized planning, and inclusive learning environments, addressing barriers that foster youth face due to frequent school or placement changes. The guidance also highlights data use for monitoring outcomes, transition planning for postsecondary success, and strategies for serving diverse subgroups, ensuring equity and educational opportunity for all students in foster care
