AZ HB2542

Requires determination within five days of a child entering foster care or experiencing a placement change about whether remaining in their school of origin is in the child's best interest, considering educational needs, current setting appropriateness, and proximity.

Mandates enrollment in a new educational institution within two days of a best interest determination and transfer of education records within two days, allowing immediate enrollment even without required documents or outstanding fees.

Establishes joint responsibility between the Department of Child Safety and educational agencies to ensure transportation to the determined appropriate educational institution, including charter schools and out-of-district schools, with financial assistance available to caregivers if needed.

Requires assessment within fifteen days of foster care entry or new school enrollment to identify the child's unique support needs, with local education agencies implementing an individualized support and intervention plan that may include mental health screening, activity engagement, tutoring, and remedial instruction.

Prohibits use of the individualized support and intervention plan to delay special education evaluations and requires referral for special education evaluation if the local education agency believes a child has a disability.