McKinney-Vento Homeless Policy

Homeless youth are entitled to immediate enrollments and their families are not required to prove residency regarding school enrollment. Included within the definition of homeless children and youth are those who are “awaiting foster care placement” and “unaccompanied homeless youth.” These students should be enrolled without delay, in the district where they are presently residing, or continue their education in the district of prior attendance. See the McKinney-Vento Act, 42 U.S.C. §11431 et seq.

HOMELESS CHILDREN AND YOUTH POLICY (MCKINNEY-VENTO HOMELESS ACT)

ASPIRA Inc of PA Schools recognizes the multiplicity of challenges most homeless, displaced, and doubled-up families encounter, and understand our responsibility to resolve some of the issues they face. ASPIRA Inc of PA Schools also realizes the availability of resources in any emergency may make the difference between success and failure in school. The below memorandums are designed to help school personnel access the services provided by the Office of Student Enrollment and Placement and/or ASPIRA Inc of PA Schools for all homeless students. Please disseminate the information to all concerned staff.

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Act, now part of the Improving America’s Schools Act (Public Law 103-382) and the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, guarantees a free and appropriate public education for homeless/displaced children and youth. BEC 42 U.S.C. & 11301 outlines procedures for deciding school placement, enrolling students, and determining fiscal responsibility. Federal and state laws make our accountability clear. With an estimated 10,000 homeless students currently attending Philadelphia public schools, we must provide appropriate academic support and services.