Homeless Services (McKinney-Vento)

Definition of Homelessness

A homeless student is one who lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. This includes students who are:

• Staying in transitional or emergency shelters, campgrounds, or motels
• Sharing housing with other families due to loss of housing or inability to afford housing
• Abandoned in hospitals
• Living in substandard housing or places not ordinarily used for sleeping
• Runaways or those who have been thrown out of their homes

School Stability and Enrollment

Homeless students may remain in their school of origin all year if feasible, even if they move. Alternatively, they can enroll in the school serving their temporary address.

Services and Eligibility

Homeless students are automatically eligible for:

• School meals program
• Instructional services through Title I
• Tutoring
• Transportation to the school of best interest

McKinney-Vento Act Overview

The McKinney-Vento Act, part of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, ensures that homeless children and youth receive an education equal to that of their non-homeless peers.

Who is Considered Homeless?

According to the McKinney-Vento Act, homeless children and youth include those who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence, including:

• Doubling-up with others due to economic hardship
• Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or campgrounds
• Staying in emergency or transitional shelters
• Abandoned in hospitals
• Living in cars, parks, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings

School Enrollment and Transportation

The McKinney-Vento Act requires immediate enrollment of homeless children and youth, even without documentation. Schools must provide transportation to the school of best interest and during the resolution of any disputes.

McKinney-Vento Coordinator Role

Every school district must appoint a homeless coordinator to ensure the enrollment and success of homeless children and youth. This coordinator acts as a liaison between homeless families and school staff, district personnel, shelter workers, and social-service providers.