Who is Homeless?

Title X, Part C of the No Child Left Behind 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.

Also considered homeless are families who will imminently lose their primary nighttime residence and individuals and families who are fleeing, or attempting to flee, a situation of domestic violence.

You and your children have the right to:

  • Be fully informed of available enrollment options and educational opportunities
  • Remain in the school of origin, if appropriate
  • Transportation to the school of origin, when feasible
  • School enrollment in a timely manner
  • Enrollment in school if child is not living with a parent or guardian
  • Immediate eligibility for "Free Lunch"

If you think you or your child may be eligible for help under the McKinney-Vento Education Act, please speak with someone at your school or call Laura Brown 434-296-3872 ext. 3.