Nevada Department of EducationNevada Department of Education

Foster Care

Overview

The main goal of the Nevada Department of Education (NDE) Foster Care program is to keep life stable for students in foster care. When a student's living situation changes, we work closely with child welfare agencies to make sure their education isn't interrupted.

How We Support Students

We prioritize academic success and emotional well-being of foster youth through two main actions:

  • Staying at the Same School: Whenever possible, we help students stay in their "school of origin" (the school they attended before entering foster care), even if they move to a new neighborhood.
  • Quick Enrollment: If a student must switch schools, we ensure they are enrolled immediately so they don’t miss any class time.

Collaboration and Coordination

To make this happen, the State Foster Care Liaison works with local school districts and child welfare offices to:

  • Plan for Transportation: We ensure there is a clear plan and funding to get students to school safely.
  • Share Best Practices: State and district leaders meet regularly to solve problems and share the best ways to support vulnerable students.
  • Provide Resources: We connect local schools with national tools and community groups to improve the support foster students receive.
Ashley Crow

Foster Care Liaison

Laura Obrist

Nevada System of Higher Education Foster Youth Ambassador