Foster Youth Services

Foster Youth Services

KCSOS’s Foster Youth Services Coordinating Program (FYSCP) is a state-funded educational advocacy program that provides linkages and support services to Probation wards and dependents in foster care and group homes (ages 4-21) to increase academic achievement, attendance, and positive school behaviors. FYSCP was established to meet the unique educational needs of foster youth by providing advocacy and other support services designed to encourage the academic and personal success of all students in foster care.

Download our brochure Foster Youth Education Liaison Contacts

Young girl with two persons in background

Why Foster Youth Services?
Foster youth often experience multiple changes in their living arrangements, which can lead to changes in their educational placements. High mobility can potentially disrupt, or even damage, their educational growth. Because of these complexities, recent research shows that 75% of foster youth are working below grade level, 83% are held back by the third grade, and 46% will eventually drop out of high school.

Who is Eligible for Foster Youth Services?
Children and youth between the ages of 4 and 21 who are:

  • In out-of-home placement or living at home, and under court supervision (WIC 300).
  • Wards placed by the court in out-of-home care (WIC 602).
  • Supervised by your county under the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC).
  • Under supervision of the tribal court (ICWA).

How Does AB 490 Support Foster Youth?
AB 490 requires that every school district appoint a foster youth liaison to protect the educational rights of wards and dependents, ensuring they are made aware of their right to remain at the school of origin; access to academic resources; timely transfer of grades and credits, and immediate enrollment into school.

FYSCP is available to assist districts and other agencies in understanding these requirements and to provide strategies for working with these students. FYSCP also educates school site staff, care providers, service providers, and others in the community on the educational needs and rights of foster youth.

Foster Youth Services Logo

For more information, or to make a referral, please contact:

Kern County Foster Youth Services
Coordinating Program
Located at the Dream Center

1807 19th Street
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Phone (661) 636-4900

Dream Center Logo