All children and youth have the right to free, appropriate public education.  Including children and youth with:

• Uncertain housing

• A temporary address

• No permanent physical address 

The federal McKinney-Vento Act guarantees school enrollment for anyone who, due to a lack of housing, does not have a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.  Such children and youth may live:

• In an emergency shelter or transitional housing.

• In a motel, hotel, or campground due to the lack of an adequate alternative.

• In a car, park, public place, bus or train station, or abandoned building.

• Doubled up with relatives or friends due to loss of housing or economic hardship.

• In these conditions and be a migratory child or youth, or

• In these conditions and be a youth not accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Children and youth living in these settings may meet the McKinney-Vento definition of homelessness and have additional educational rights. 

Where can a child or youth without a fixed, regular, and adequate residence attend school?

• The school the child or youth attended before becoming homeless or was last enrolled (school of origin), or

• The school in the attendance area where the child or youth is currently living. 

How can delays be avoided when enrolling a student experiencing homelessness in school?

• Enroll the student immediately.

• Contact the previous school and ask that the records be sent electronically or shared over the phone.

• Contact the principal, school counselor, or local homeless education liaison with any concerns.

• Contact the local homeless education liaison to support unaccompanied youth when enrolling in school. 

Where can I get help?

Local Homeless Education Liaison
Karen Martin
Supervisor of Compliance
309 Volunteer Avenue
Clintwood, VA 24228
Email Karen Martin
(276) 926-4643