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Pupil Services and Special Programs

PA Homeless Children's Initiative


WHO IS CONSIDERED HOMELESS?

 

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Act defines homelessness as living in the following places due to a lack of a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence:
 
·         In an emergency or transitional shelter

·         In a motel, hotel, or campground

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

·         Doubled up with relatives or friends

·         In the above conditions and is a migratory child or youth

 

This definition of homelessness applies to children and youth with:

 

·         Uncertain housing

·         A temporary address

·         No permanent physical address

 

Children and youth living in these settings meet criteria for the McKinney-Vento definition of homelessness and have special 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

·         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

 

For more information, contact the building principal, school counselor, or Norwin School District’s local homeless liaison, Maggie Zimmer, at 724-861-3037.