Mission

Foster Youth Services is a program offered by Monterey County Office of Education designed to serve the unique needs of children and youth placed in foster care. National and statewide research shows that a high percentage of children who are removed from their homes and placed in the foster care system experience both short and long term challenges in school. Traumatic histories of abuse and neglect compounded by frequent changes in foster care placements contribute to issues in the classroom and/or reduced academic achievement.

Scope of Services

Assists schools in obtaining student records, educational background and placement information, and documents educational rights holder for students.

  • Provides consultation and training for school personnel, foster parents, group home staff
  • Provides educational case management for children and youth
  • Foster Youth Services staff attends SST’s, IEP’s, and disciplinary hearings.
  • School adjustment counseling for children/youth.
  • Assistance with credit recovery for high school students
  • Tutoring
  • Academic advising for high school graduation and post secondary pathways
  • Leadership/Self Advocacy training for foster youth
  • Provides technical support and advocacy to insure student’s rights are observed

Eligibility and Referral

All children and youth living in licensed foster care in Monterey County between the ages of 4-21 are eligible for services. Referrals can be made by social workers, probation officers, foster parents, group home providers, and school personnel. Contact FYS at 831-655-0405.

Partner Network

The MCOE Foster Youth Advisory Council is a local collaborative made up of many agencies and organizations serving foster children and youth in Monterey County. The Council meets quarterly at MCOE. Members include school districts, Department of Social and Employment Services, the Courts, Juvenile Probation, Children’s Behavioral Health CASA, CSU Monterey Bay, and foster care providers.

The mission of the Council is to provide leadership and guidance to Foster Youth Services which results in the development of systems, policies, and practices which address the needs of children and youth in foster care.

Contact Person:
Frank Beitz
Telephone: 831.655.0405
FAX: 831.655.3845