Foster Care

The Foster Care Education program at OSPI helps students in foster care do better in school. It works to keep their education stable, avoid disruptions, and improve their learning. To make this happen, schools, child welfare workers, families, and communities need to work together. They must give these students fair chances, special help, and strong support so they can succeed in school and in life.  

This program is part of OSPI’s Student Engagement and Special Programs division. With a focus on OSPI's vision of all students prepared for post-secondary pathways, careers, and civic engagement, this division strives to create an equitable education system that provides whole-child supports in partnership with communities to ensure every student is safe, supported, and equipped to thrive and learn. It partners with schools, foster parents, social workers, state agencies, and advocates to support every part of a child’s development using proven methods and teamwork. 

This page has the schedule and links for Foster Care Office Hours and Regional Meetings. You’ll also find links to other helpful foster care pages. 

Foster Care Office Hours

Please join us on the third Wednesday of every month, from 10:00-11:00 am, for office hours via Zoom. Drop in at any time during the hour to ask questions, and share ideas, concerns, or celebrations. This is a time for foster care liaisons and building points of contact to collaborate with OSPI and each other!   

Join Foster Care Office Hours!

Foster Care Monthly Collaborative Meetings

Join us on the second Tuesday of each month from 1:00-2:00 pm for the Foster Care Monthly Collaborative Meeting. Each month we will highlight a different topic focused on strategies to support students in foster care. These meetings will also provide opportunities to connect with Foster Care Liaisons and Building Points of Contact in your region through small group discussions and collaboration.

Join the Monthly Collaborative Meeting!

Foster Care Liaisons, DCYF, and State-wide Contacts

Find contact information for school district liaisons and Department of Children, Youth and Families (FDCYF) staff who can help resolve issues and provide support.

Foster Care Building Point of Contact

Find building point of contacts for support with a specific school that a student attends.

State & Federal Requirements

Find state and federal laws that support students in foster care along with guidance to help with implementation and advocacy.

Resources & Training

Tools and materials on this page are created to assist districts in the implementation of state and federal laws as well as to assist others in advocating for students in foster care.

Postsecondary Education

Find information about helping students in foster care with financial aid and other post-secondary resources.