Find resources that can help teachers improve the educational outcomes of students in foster care. A positive PK to grade 12 education has the potential to be a powerful counterweight to the abuse, neglect, separation, impermanence and other barriers students in foster care may experience. Additionally, a postsecondary credential can enhance the student's well-being, help them make more successful transitions to adulthood, and increase their chances for personal fulfillment and economic self-sufficiency.

OCR’s mission is to ensure equal access to education and to promote educational excellence through vigorous enforcement of civil rights in our nation’s schools. 

Looking for answers to your questions? Our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page provides answers to common questions about the Department of Education, grants, student loans, and more.

This tool is designed to help you determine if the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) may be able to assist you by investigating a complaint of discrimination against a school, school district, college, university, library, or other educational entity that is covered by a law OCR enforces.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) provides certain rights for parents regarding their children’s education records. Visit ED's Student Privacy site to learn more about FERPA. 

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964, by executive order of the President, to recognize and honor some of our nation's most distinguished graduating high school seniors. In 1979, the program was extended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, creative and performing arts. In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields.

Explore the U.S. Department of Education's call to action to transform education and unite around what truly works — based on decades of experience and research — to advance educational equity and excellence.

Learn more about the formula and discretionary grant programs under the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act (Perkins), and find information about national initiatives that support high-quality career and technical education programs.

View the grants forecast for open and upcoming grant opportunities available from ED.