Homeless
The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act defines homelessness as children and youth "who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence." This includes children and youth living in the following situations:
- shelters or transitional housing programs;
- motels, hotels, or weekly rate housing;
- doubled up with friends or relatives because family cannot find or afford housing;
- abandoned buildings, public space, car, or other inadequate accommodation;
- awaiting foster care placement (prior to court hearing)
Student Rights: Students who experience homelessness have certain rights provided by the federal McKinney-Vento Act. Eligible children and youth have the right to:
- Receive a free, appropriate public education;
- Enroll in school immediately, even if lacking documents normally required for enrollment;
- Enroll in school and attend classes while the documents are gathered;
- Enroll in the local school; or continue at the last school attended, if that is the guardian's preference and it is feasible;
- Receive transportation to and from school, if requested. Transportation could be provided by school bus, Type III school bus (certified vans, taxis, or cars) or city bus pass depending on the situation and grade level of the student;
- Receive free breakfast and lunch;
- Have disagreements about school placement decisions resolved quickly.
If you have questions please contact the Homeless Liaison, Director of Student Services or Student Services Administrative Assistant Barb Erickson at 763-528-4414.