MSD of Warren Township:
James Taylor
Director for Student / Social Services
McKinney-Vento District Liaison
jtaylor2@warren.k12.in.us
317-532-3858
Ryan Russell
Associate Superintendent
rrussell@warren.k12.in.us
317-869-4352
Indiana Department of Education:
Flora Jones, Director of Student Pathways & Opportunities
Charie Gibson, Homeless Education Specialist
McKinneyVentoPOC@doe.in.gov
317-232-0957
After receiving reports that up to 50% of homeless children were not attending school, Congress established the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. President Ronald Regan signed it into law on July 22, 1987. The McKinney-Vento Act was created with the goal of ensuring the enrollment, attendance, and success of homeless children and youth in school. It provides states with funding to help remove barriers to education.
Children who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate night time residence:
"Double up" - Sharing the housing of others due to the loss of housing, economic hardship, or similar reasons.
Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, camping grounds, due to lack of adequate alternative accommodations.
Living in emergency or transitional shelters.
Living in a public or private place not designed for humans to live.
Migratory children living in above circumstances
Living in cars, parks, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings
Unaccompanied Youth - Children or youth who meets the definition of homeless and not in the physical custody of a parent or guardian
The McKinney Vento Act provides certain rights for homeless students. They include waiving certain requirements such as proof of residency when students are enrolling and allowing categorical eligibility for certain services, such as free textbooks. The Act also states:
Homeless students may attend their school of origin or the school where they are temporarily residing;
Homeless students must be provided a written statement of their rights when they enroll and at least two times per year;
Homeless students may enroll without school, medical, or similar records;
Homeless students have a right to transportation to school;
Students must be provided a statement explaining why they are denied any service or enrollment;
Students must receive services, such as transportation, while disputes are being settled;
Students are automatically eligible for Title I services;
School districts must reserve a portion of Title IA funds to serve homeless students;
School districts must review and revise policies that provide barriers to homeless students;
Schools must post information in the community regarding the rights of homeless students, in schools and other places that homeless families may frequent; and
School districts must identify a McKinney Vento Liaison to assist students.
