In California, an estimated 225,000 students in grades K-12 face homelessness annually, while more than 46,000 are in the foster system. Studies indicate that these students encounter significant barriers in achieving their high school diplomas and pursuing further education.

Assembly Bill (AB) 2137 would remove barriers that currently prevent Foster Youth Services Coordinating Programs from providing critical direct services, including tutoring, mentoring, and counseling, for students in foster care. It would also give these programs access to information, in the senior year of high school, regarding who has opted out of completing applications for financial aid for college or other post-high school education. With this knowledge, the programs can offer personalized help to these students, helping them to better understand their options for financial aid and for furthering their education.

For students experiencing homelessness, AB 2137 closes loopholes in the Local Control and Accountability Plan process to ensure their unique needs are considered as plans are developed. California Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva (D-67) introduced the bill, also co-sponsored by John Burton Advocates for Youth, in February.