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McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act

Henderson County Public Schools identified 323 homeless students in the 2020-2021 school year.

It is estimated that homeless children are the fastest growing segment of the homeless population (Shinn and Weitzman, 1996). While Henderson County Public Schools endeavors to meet the educational needs of all students, we recognize the unique needs of homeless and precariously housed students. In our school system, students in unstable or transitional housing are afforded the same rights and services as students in more stable living situations. However, when students are experiencing homelessness the uncertainty of their situations may warrant additional services, resources, and interventions on the part of school personnel.

The Education for Homeless Children and Youth Program of the McKinney Act was authorized in 1987. The purpose was to ensure that students experiencing homelessness are given the same rights as non- homeless students. The Act was reauthorized in January 2015 as the McKinney-Vento Act and expanded the educational right of students experiencing homelessness.

Homeless families live in the following situations:

* in a shelter, motel, vehicle, or campground

* on the street

* in an abandoned building, trailer, or other inadequate accommodation

* doubled up with friends or relatives because you cannot find or afford housing

Access the McKinney- Vento law in full text.

Access the Every Student Succeeds Act.