What is Homelessness?

The McKinney-Vento Act Homeless Definition : Children and youth who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence are homeless.

Types of Homeless Environments:

• Sharing housing due to loss of housing or economic hardship
• Living in motels, etc.
• Living in emergency or transitional housing (shelters)
• Migratory children
• Unaccompanied youth (couch surfers...)

Proof of Residency

Question: Can a school require proof of residency (rent receipt, lease agreements, utility receipts, and property tax receipts. etc.) that prevents or delays the enrollment of children or youth experiencing homelessness?

Answer: No. Section 722(g)(3)(C)(i) of McKinney-Vento states that a child or youth experiencing homelessness must be enrolled immediately, “even if the child or youth is unable to produce records normally required for enrollment, such as previous academic records, medical records, proof of residency or other documentation.” Additionally, Section 721(1) of McKinney-Vento requires that children in homeless situations be provided equal access to the same free, appropriate public education as provided other children and youth. School districts cannot prevent the enrollment of children and youth without homes through residency requirements. If the child is homeless, inability to provide documentation of permanent residence should not prevent or delay the child’s enrollment.

SISD HANDS Transportation Contract

Resources

Program and Support Overview

Programas y Apoyo de Información general

McKinney-Vento Frequently Asked Questions

Kids Without Homes: SISD Responds

Texas Homeless Education Office Website

National Center for Homeless Education We

El Paso Coalition for the Homeless Website