Homeless Education

The McKinney-Vento Act defines homeless students as youth who "lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence." This includes various housing situations where stability and adequacy are compromised.

Examples of Homeless Living Situations:

• Shared housing due to loss of housing or financial hardship.
• Motels, hotels, trailer parks, or campgrounds used as primary residences.
• Emergency, transitional, or domestic violence shelters.
• Vehicles, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, or transportation hubs (such as bus/train stations).
• Unaccompanied youth and runaways.

Educational Rights of Homeless Students:

The McKinney-Vento Act mandates that homeless students must have equal access to education and opportunities available to other students. Key protections include:

• School Stability: Students have the right to stay in their school of origin, even if they temporarily move outside their home district.
• Transportation: Districts must provide transportation to and from the student’s school of origin.
• Immediate Enrollment: Students can enroll immediately in any public school, even without typical documentation (like proof of residency or immunization records).
• Free School Meals: Homeless students are automatically eligible for free lunch.
• Dispute Resolution: A district-appointed homeless liaison must assist in resolving enrollment disputes and advocating for the student.

Through the McKinney-Vento Act all students, regardless of their housing status, receive the support needed to pursue their education and achieve academic success.

If you have a student that you feel would benefit from services such as: ILP, Homework Help, Mentoring or simply needs assistance with school supplies, backpacks, clothing, hygiene products, food please utilize our Outreach Referral Form and staff will contact the student/family directly.