Education of Homeless Children & Youth: McKinney-Vento 101 “If kids come from strong, healthy, functioning families, it makes our job easier. If they do not come from strong, healthy, functioning families, it makes our job important.” --B. Coloroso

What is the McKinney-Vento Act? The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is the primary piece of federal legislation dealing with the education of children and youth experiencing homelessness in U.S. public schools. It was reauthorized as Title X, Part C, of the No Child Left Behind Act in January of 2002.

How many people in the United States are homeless? People experiencing homelessness are not a stationary group; homelessness is a ‘revolving door phenomenon’. It is estimated that, over the course of a year, between 2.3 and 3.5 million people will experience homelessness, of which between 900,000 and 1.4 million will be children.

What is a homeless student? Children who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. This includes: Students who are temporarily living with others, known as double bunking or couch surfing Students living in motels, camping grounds, or shelters Students living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, bus or train stations Students not living with a parent or legal guardian Students awaiting foster care placement

Common Signs of Homelessness Poor Health/Nutrition Transportation and Attendance Problems Lack of Continuity in Education Poor Hygiene Not Ready for Class Social and Behavioral cues

Common Signs of Homelessness Reactions/ Statements by Parents or Child: Anger or embarrassment when asked about current address Mentions staying with grandparents, other relatives, friends or motel Makes comments such as: “I don’t remember the name of my last school.” “We’ve been moving around a lot.” “Our address is new; I can’t remember it.” “We’re going through a bad time right now.”

What does the McKinney-Vento Act do for children? McKinney-Vento establishes a Liaison for homeless students who works to protect their best interest by ensuring that the child can: Immediately enroll -- documentation and immunization records cannot serve as a barrier Remain at the school of origin Remain enrolled until permanent housing is found Receive transportation to and from the school of origin Participate in programs- National School Lunch, Title I, etc.

What SHOULD I do if I suspect that one of OUR students is homeless? Notify Kyrene’s Homeless Liaison at (480) Keep the information confidential Treat the family with respect

THE Kyrene Family Resource Center The Family Resource Center provides basic resources (food, clothing, and school supplies) to families who are in need -- whether they are homeless or not. It is located at Kyrene de los Niños Elementary School Additional information is available at the Family Resource Center webpage: Family Resource Center