Strengthening Families in Transition

Ensures that every homeless child has equal access to the same free, appropriate public education, as provided to other children and youths. It seeks to remove barriers to education, such as immediate enrollment, attendance, transportation, or success in school. (Title X, Sec. 721) Maintains educational continuity during a time of transition Requires schools to identify and enroll students who meet the definition of homeless Is authorized under the “No Child Left Behind Act”

A homeless student is an individual who lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. (Title X, Sec. 725, 2A) A Fixed residence is a student’s permanent housing. The student or family will have no intention of moving to a different residence. A Regular residence is one that a student stays at frequently. An Adequate residence is a residence that is sufficient under the law and community norms.

Shared housing (doubled up) Motels, hotels, camp grounds Shelters or emergency housing Cars, parks, or other public places that are not designed for or ordinarily used as regular sleeping accommodations

An Unaccompanied Youth who is considered homeless is someone who is not in the physical custody of a parent or guardian AND who meets the criteria for homelessness in the definition.

Every school should have at least one Key Contact Identify and immediately enroll homeless students based on the best interest of the child and the preference of the parent or unaccompanied youth Transport student to the school of origin (if appropriate)

Facilitate identification and enrollment by knowing the law, train school staff and display parent/youth posters in each school Make sure that homeless students receive transportation (if appropriate), free meals, early education services…and all other services available to non-homeless students Link homeless students to appropriate services in both the school and the community

Ensure that school personnel know how to identify and refer students to the Homeless Education Liaison by using the “Referral Form”

Who is/are the Key Contact(s) in your building?

QUESTIONS?

Amy Dorsey NCLB Coordinator Families in Transition Liaison PH: FAX:

Transportation if appropriate Backpacks! With school supplies and personal hygiene supplies Clothing vouchers if appropriate Shoe cards if appropriate Gas cards if necessary Medical and counseling referrals Academic Tutoring Laundry/Shower Vouchers***