For questions about homeless status or for homeless resources, please contact:

Jacki Scharping
Email
309-785-8054

What is the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act?

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is a federal law created to support the enrollment and education of homeless students. McKinney-Vento is intended to provide homeless students the same educational opportunities as housed students by removing as many barriers to learning for homeless students as possible.

What are some of the rights are afforded to students and school districts through McKinney-Vento?

1. Transportation to and from school and extracurriculars free of charge. This includes ensuring specific busing for homeless students so they can stay at the school they were attending before they became homeless.

2. Children experiencing homelessness have the right to attend their school of origin (the school they attended when they first became homeless) even if they are not residing in the area anymore.

3. Schools must enroll children immediately even if they lack normally required documents, such as immunization records or proof of residence.

4. States must designate a statewide homeless coordinator to review policies and create procedures that affect homeless students.

5. Local school districts must appoint Education Liaisons to ensure that school staff are aware of these rights, to provide public notice to homeless families, and to facilitate access to school and transportation services.