Foster Youth Services (FYS) in California and Monterey County

Introduction

Foster Youth Services (FYS) aim to provide comprehensive educational and support services to foster youth, ensuring their academic and personal success. This webpage provides detailed information about the services, relevant laws, and supports available at both the state and local levels, with a specific focus on Monterey County.

Overview of Foster Youth Services

Foster Youth Services in California provide critical support to foster youth, including educational assistance, mental health services, and advocacy. These services help address the unique challenges faced by foster youth and promote their well-being and academic success.

California State Laws and Supports

Assembly Bill 490 (AB 490)

• Overview: AB 490 ensures that foster youth have access to educational liaisons in every school district, facilitating timely and appropriate educational services.

• Details: This law mandates that foster youth should not be penalized for school changes and that they should receive priority enrollment and transfer of school records.

Assembly Bill 2083 (AB 2083)

Overview: AB 2083 establishes a coordinated system of care for foster youth, ensuring comprehensive and integrated services.

Details: It involves multiple agencies working together to provide seamless support for foster youth, addressing both educational and behavioral health needs.

California Foster Youth Education Task Force

Website: California Foster Youth Education Task Force

Description: This task force provides guidance, resources, and best practices for supporting the educational needs of foster youth in California.

California Department of Education - Foster Youth Services Coordinating Program (FYSCP)

Website: California Department of Education FYSCP

Description: This program coordinates efforts across school districts to provide educational support and services to foster youth, ensuring they have the resources needed to succeed academically.

Monterey County Specific Services and Supports

Monterey County Office of Education - Foster Youth Services

Website: Monterey County Office of Education - Foster Youth Services

Description: Provides comprehensive educational support and resources to foster youth in Monterey County, including tutoring, mentoring, and advocacy.

Local Contacts

Justin Parker

Role: Coordinator at Monterey County Office of Education

Contact: 831-784-4227, juparker@montereycoe.org

Brad Smith

Role: Director of Student and Family Services

Contact: 831-678-3987

Artemisa Delgado

Role: Districtwide Intervention Coordinator

Contact: 831-540-0191

Additional Resources

1. California Department of Education - Resources for Parents and Educators

• Website: CDE Resources

• Description: Offers a wealth of resources, including legislative updates, best practices, and toolkits for supporting foster youth.

2. California Foster Youth Education Task Force - Resource Guide

• Website: California Foster Youth Rights Handbook

• Description: Provides comprehensive guidelines and support materials for educators and caregivers working with foster youth.

3. Suicide Prevention Service of the Central Coast

• Website: Suicide Prevention Service

• Description: Offers a 24-hour crisis line, outreach, education, and support groups for individuals and families in Monterey County.

Conclusion

Foster Youth Services in California and specifically in Monterey County provide essential support to foster youth, helping them overcome challenges and succeed academically and personally. By leveraging the available resources and understanding the relevant laws, caregivers and educators can ensure that foster youth receive the care and support they need.

For more information, visit the Monterey County Office of Education - Foster Youth Services.

If you have any further questions or need additional information, please contact the relevant offices or visit the provided websites.