Foster Care Bill of Rights
The State Legislature passed a bill in May, which includes some important educational services for children in foster care. Senate Bill 291 (2009) created sections 167.018 and 167.019, RSMo, otherwise known as the “Foster Care Education Bill of Rights”. These laws require public school districts and child placing agencies to ensure foster children don’t fall through the cracks when it comes to receiving an education.
Highlights from the bill include:
- a requirement that each district appoint a liaison to assist foster parents with enrolling children and getting school records in a timely manner.
- a provision that allows foster children to remain at their current school if their new placement is changed to another school or district. The bill does not provide transportation for youth, however, foster parents may be able to be reimbursed for mileage if they provide the transportation to and from the previous school.
- addresses high school credits and the transfer of credits.
- allows students to be excused for court hearings and other issues related to foster care.
The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has outlined the regulations of SB 291 in a memorandum sent to all school districts. To read the entire memorandum that outlines the provisions of SB 219, please visit:
If you have any questions, please contact Leslie Lewis, Director of Educational Advocacy, at 800.FOSTER.3 (314.367.8373) x37.