Homeless
McKinney-Vento Education for Homeless Children
The goal of the McKinney-Vento Education for Homeless Children and Youth Program is to ensure that all children have an equal right to a fee, appropriate public education. McKinney-Vento addresses barriers related to enrollment, attendance, and the academic success of homeless children and youth.
Students/families must apply and meet certain criteria to be eligible for the McKinney- Vento program. Eligibility is determined by the district McKinney-Vento Liaison, Debbie Metzger.
Once eligibility has been determined, homeless children and families have the right to:
· Enroll the student, even if they don’t have immediate access to the required paperwork.
· A school placement that is in the best interest of the child. The child may stay at the school they attended when they were permanently housed. This is called the “school of origin.” The child may also attend school in the district where the family is currently staying. The McKinney-Vento Liaison will help determine the most feasible and reasonable placement that is in the child’s best interest.
· Transportaion to the school of origin, if feasible, until the family has permanent housing.
· Free services including breakfast, lunch, and textbook fees.
· Appeal decisions regarding placement and services. The McKinney-Vento Liaison can assist families with the appeal process.
For more information, please contact Debbie Metzger at (574)-583-7211.