Zenzinger’s Bill to Improve Access to Special Education for Students in Foster Care Clears Senate

HB23-1089 removes barriers for foster care recipients who are enrolled in special education

DENVER, CO – Senator Rachel Zenzinger’s, D-Arvada, bill to make it easier for children in the foster care system to continue receiving special education services cleared the Senate today.

HB23-1089 modifies current law to direct resources toward the school district a foster child attends, rather than to the district they are geographically located in. The bill also creates a task force to identify and propose solutions to issues facing education for children in the foster care system.

“All Colorado students deserve a great education, and I am pleased to see my bill that reduces disruptions to special education for kids in foster care unanimously move forward," said Zenzinger. “Children in foster care face many challenges, and this bill will help us better support these students now and into the future.” 

The bill will remedy funding issues related to special education recipients in foster care. Current law allows foster children to continue attending the same school regardless of placement, and directs special education funds toward the school district where a foster child is located, rather than the district they attend, creating funding shortfalls and diminished services. HB23-1089 better aligns special education funding with school enrollment, allowing schools to better serve these students.

HB23-1089 now moves to the Governor’s desk for final approval. To follow the bill’s progress, click HERE.