The McKinney-Vento Act defines homeless children as "individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence." The act provides examples of children who would fall under this definition:
Anyone who, due to a lack of housing, lives:
- In a shelter
- In a motel
- In a vehicle
- In a campground
- On the street
- Doubled up with relatives or friends
Homeless students are entitled to assistance with enrollment, necessary supplies for school, school clothing or uniforms, help with accessing educational services and programs, transportation and referrals to shelters and community agencies.
It is our goal to facilitate academic success for students experiencing homelessness by giving students the right to remain in one school despite their residential mobility and guaranteeing access to all appropriate educational opportunities and services.
It is also our goal to eliminate the barriers that can delay or prevent a homeless student's access to public education.
Every homeless student has the right to...
- Go to school no matter where they live or how long they've lived there.
- Continue in the school they attended before becoming homeless or the school they last attended.
- Receive transportation to the school they attended before becoming homeless or the school they last attended, if it is feasible and in the best interest of the child.
- Attend school and participate in school programs with children who are not homeless.
- Enroll in school without giving a permanent address.
- Enroll and attend classes while the school arranges for the transfer of school and immunization records or any other documents required for enrollment.
- Enroll and attend classes in the school of choice even while the school and parent/guardian seek to resolve a dispute over enrollment.
- Participate in special programs and receive school services as needed
Contact:
Kasey Miles Feagin
McKinney-Vento District Liaison
125 S. Blanding St.
Lake City, SC 29560
843-374-8652 ext 10092
More information: https://ed.sc.gov/policy/federal-education-programs/essa-title-ix-part-a-mckinney-vento-homeless-assistance-act/
Information for Pre School Students: https://schoolhouseconnection.org/pathways-to-partnership-early-childhood-education