McKinney-Vento Act

The Federal McKinney-Vento Act guarantees school enrollment for anyone who, due to a lack of permanent housing, lives in inadequate or temporary settings, such as:  

Families should know:

• You do not need a permanent address to enroll your child in school.
• Your child cannot be denied school enrollment when school records or other enrollment documentation are not immediately available.
• Your child may be able to remain in the same school even if you move.
• Your child has the right to transportation services to remain in the school of origin when in the child’s best interests.
• Schools must provide you with a written explanation if a placement dispute occurs and you may appeal the school’s decision. Contact your local Homeless Liaison for assistance in handling a placement dispute.
• Your child automatically qualifies to participate in free breakfast and lunch programs.
• Your child has the right to participate in extracurricular activities and all federal, state, or local programs for which he/she is eligible.
• Unaccompanied youth lacking fixed, regular and adequate housing have these same rights.

Resources:

• Chloe Jerlinski, McKinney Vento Liaison: 540-434-2752
• HCPS Admission of Homeless Children Policy 
• Project HOPE