Homeless Education

What is the McKinney Vento Homeless Act?

The purpose of the McKinney Vento Homeless Act is to remove barriers to education, ensure that students who are displaced due to lack of housing have certain rights and help provide stability in their education.

Key Provisions of the McKinney Vento Homeless Act: 

Section 725(2) of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Act defines homeless children and youth as individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate night-time residence which can include:

• Children and youth who are currently living in a temporary place or residence and sharing housing with others due to; economic hardships, eviction, natural disaster, loss of housing; or living in motels or camp grounds due to lack of alternative or adequate accommodations; living in an emergency or transitional shelter; or are awaiting foster care placement
• Unaccompanied youth (not living with parent or guardian) living in a temporary situation.

Your Child's Rights:

The McKinney-Vento Act ensures educational rights and protections for children and youth experiencing homelessness.  These rights include:

• Immediate enrollment 
• Immediate eligibility for free child nutrition
• Keeping the child enrolled in "School of Origin" upon request or assisting the child with enrollment in the attendance zone where he/she is currently residing.
• Transportation assistance 

For help enrolling or if you feel you fit this criteria, 

Contact:

Lesley Gershmel, BHISD Social Worker
Lesley.Gershmel@bhisd.net
281-576-2221 ext. 1450