McKinney-Vento Act (Information for Homeless Students)
This webpage is dedicated to supporting students and youth experiencing homelessness, helping to remove barriers to their education.
Overview of the McKinney-Vento Act
The federal McKinney-Vento Act mandates that states and school districts eliminate obstacles to the identification, enrollment, stability, and success of children and youth experiencing homelessness. It guarantees rights and services to these students, including those who:
- Are sharing housing with others due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or similar reasons.
- Are living in motels, trailer parks, or campgrounds because of a lack of adequate alternatives.
- Are staying in shelters or transitional housing.
- Are sleeping in cars, parks, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, or similar settings.Services and Rights for Homeless Students
Definition of Homelessness: The McKinney-Vento Act defines a homeless student as one who lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence due to loss of housing or similar reasons.
Immediate Enrollment: Homeless students must be enrolled in school immediately, even if they do not have the required documents such as a birth certificate, proof of residence, or immunization records.
School of Origin: Homeless students have the option to continue attending their school of origin (including feeder pattern schools) or enroll in the district where they are currently living or in a public school academy (charter).
Transportation: Transportation to the school of origin must be provided if necessary to avoid barriers to attendance.
Basic Needs: Schools must provide uniforms, school clothes, school supplies, and hygiene items to students who need them.
Your McKinney-Vento Liaison
Under the McKinney-Vento Act, every local educational agency must appoint a liaison for homeless children and youth. This liaison coordinates services to ensure that these students can enroll in school and succeed academically.
For Bangor Public Schools, the McKinney-Vento Coordinator is:
Nicole Johnston
Social Worker & Homeless Liaison
Email: [email protected]
Office: (269) 427-6800
Nicole Johnston is available to help with any questions or needs related to the McKinney-Vento Act and the support available for homeless students.
For more information please see:
McKinney-Vento Homeless
Bangor Public School Policies
Homeless Students (Role of the Local Liaison)
Homeless Students
Transportation of Homeless Students
Admission to the District
Children and Youth in Foster Care
Eligibility of Resident/Nonresident Students