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H 258

An Act creating an electronic backpack for foster children’s educational records

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Michelle Badger and 4 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill establishing digital record-sharing system for foster children's educational files to improve academic continuity across school placements.

Accompanied a new draft, see H4599
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Bill Summary · H 258

Legislative bill overview

H 258 creates a centralized digital system ("electronic backpack") to maintain and transfer educational records for foster children throughout Massachusetts. The bill aims to ensure foster youth can access their complete academic history as they move between placements and schools, reducing administrative delays and lost documentation.

Why is this important

Foster children frequently change schools due to placement changes, and fragmented records can disrupt their education, delay special education services, and create gaps in academic continuity. A consolidated digital record system could improve educational outcomes, reduce bureaucratic burden on schools and caseworkers, and help foster youth maintain academic progress during unstable housing situations.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs and technical infrastructure: Creating and maintaining a statewide digital system requires significant funding, cybersecurity measures, and IT support that may strain state budgets or school districts
  • Data privacy and access controls: Balancing easy access to records for authorized parties (schools, social workers) while protecting sensitive information about vulnerable minors raises questions about data security and who can view records
  • Adoption and compliance burden: Schools and social service agencies must integrate new systems into existing workflows; resistance or inconsistent implementation could limit the program's effectiveness

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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