If your family lives in any of the following situations your eligible children have the right to receive a free, appropriate public education and much more.
Living situations:
In a shelter
In a motel or campground due to lack of an alternative adequate accommodation
In a car, park, abandoned building, or bus or train station
Doubles up with other people due to loss of housing or economic hardship
Your school age children may qualify for certain rights and protections under the federal McKinney-Vento Act.
Your eligible children have the right to:
Receive a free, appropriate public education
Enroll in school immediately, even if lacking documents, normally required for enrollment
Enroll in school and attend classes while the school gathers needed documents
Enroll in the local school; or continue attending their school of origin (the school they attended when permanently housed or the school in which they were last enrolled), if that is your preference.
*If the school district believes that the school you elect is not in the best interest of your children, then the district must provide you with a written explanation of its position and inform you of your right to appeal its decision.
Receive transportation to and from the school of origin, if you request this.
Receive educational services comparable to those provided to other students, according to your child’s needs.
If you believe your children may be eligible, contact the local liaison to find out what services and supports may be available. There also may be support available for your preschool-age children.
Local Liaison: Helen Calhoun, Coordinator of Homeless Education and Parental Involvement (318) 352-8389
State Coordinator: Homeless Hotline (844) 523-4187
If you need further assistance with your children’s educational needs, contact the National Center for Homeless Education: (800) 308-2145
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