School Instability Among Foster Youth in Los Angeles County: Risk Factors and Perspectives of the County’s Transportation Initiative 

Many foster youth experience school instability due to frequent home placements, affecting their academic and socioemotional well-being. To address this, Los Angeles County implemented a transportation initiative using a private service to help foster youth stay in their school of origin despite distance and funding challenges. 

The UCLA Center for the Transformation of Schools examines this program, its barriers and the critical role of transportation in preventing school disruptions.  

Key findings include: 

• Most foster youth used the private transportation service for three months, covering about 10 miles. 

• School instability disrupts continuity for foster youth. 

• The transportation initiative provides convenience, flexibility, and contributes to school stability. 

• It helps foster youth gain a sense of agency, self-efficacy, and control over their choices. 

• Stakeholders have concerns about the fiscal sustainability of the initiative. 

• Better collaboration and communication between schools and child welfare systems are needed regarding foster care placement changes. 

While school stability is crucial for foster youth, transportation challenges often hinder it. L.A. County’s initiative helped maintain stability but has been costly for districts. The report states adequate funding and better coordination between schools and child welfare agencies are needed to support foster youth and prevent midyear disruptions. 

Read the full report for recommendations for state and local officials and school staff.