Someone has to hold the educational wheel
California’s foster youth materials explain that every foster youth under 18 must have an education rights holder, sometimes called an ERH, who makes education decisions in the youth’s best interest. That role matters because child welfare often moves quickly, and quick systems make poor assumptions when decision-making authority is fuzzy.
Why this matters
When no one knows who can sign, choose, consent, or challenge a school decision, the child pays the price. California’s guidance helps by spelling out that the ERH may be a parent, legal guardian, caregiver, or another court-chosen person, and that some roles are not eligible to serve in that position.
Related reading
Read California education rights and California transportation and enrollment.