McKinney-Vento Homeless Information

The number of homeless students is growing each year. Over 1.7 million children experience homelessness each year in the United States; in Indiana over 14,000 children experience homelessness each year. The instability that homeless children face as they move frequently between homes of family or friends and shelters makes it difficult for children and youth to have a place to do homework or even attend school at all. To further complicate things, homeless students can have a difficult time enrolling in a school due to a lack of records such as immunization or birth records, school transcripts, or a lack of a permanent address. Children who experience delays or absences often fall behind quickly, making their education more challenging. 

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (reauthorized under Title X, Part C of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001) ensures rights and services for homeless children and youth that remove barriers to their education. According to the U.S. Department of Education, children and youth living in the following situations are considered homeless:

·      Doubled up with family or friends due to economic hardship

·      Living in motels or hotels for lack of other suitable housing

·      Runaway children and youth

·      Homes for unwed or expectant mothers for lack of a place to live

·      Homeless and domestic violence shelters

·      Transitional housing programs

·      The streets

·      Abandoned buildings

·      Public places not meant for housing

·      Cars, trailers, and campgrounds

·      Migratory children staying in housing not fit for habitation

Please contact your student’s McKinney Vento Liasion to discuss how Noblesville Schools can assist your child.