Mckinney Vento/Homeless Supports
A significant number of families who are experiencing homelessness live within our district boundaries. Our liaison for families experiencing homelessness with children between the ages of 0-21 is Natalie Sandoval. She may be reached at (208) 468-4600 , ext. 1161.
The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (Subtitle B-Education for Homeless Children and Youth) ensures educational rights and protections for children and youth experiencing homelessness. Services to children who are experiencing homelessness are required by local educational agencies in the No Child Left Behind Act, and are primarily found under the requirements of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (Title X, Part C No Child Left Behind Act) and under Title I.
The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act defines "homeless children and youth" as individuals who lack a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence, as defined by the following:
Doubled up with family or a friend
In a car, park, campground, public space, abandoned building, substandard housing or similar
In a motel or hotel
In a house or vehicle of any kind (including a camper) without running water, electricity or heat
In a shelter or transitional housing
Unaccompanied youth not living with a parent or legal guardian
Youth awaiting foster care (first 30 days in foster care)
Homeless children have a right to attend school.
You do not need a permanent address to enroll your child in school.
Homeless children have the right to stay in their school of origin if the parents choose.
Your child cannot be denied school enrollment just because school records or other enrollment documentation are not immediately available.
Your child has the opportunity to receive transportation services to and from the school of origin.
Your child has the right to participate in extracurricular activities and all federal, state or local programs for which he/she is eligible.
The school of origin is defined as the school the student attended when permanently housed or the school in which the student was last enrolled.
Qualification for free breakfast and lunch program.
Transportation assistance to remain in their school of origin.
After-school tutoring programs.
Referrals for clothing.
Backpacks, school supplies, blankets and hygiene kits.
Referrals to community resources.
Referrals to food pantries and/or free meals.
Referrals to domestic violence advocates (currently one on site, one day a week).
Referrals to medical/dental assistance.
Grade/attendance contracts with incentives.
Assistance with college applications and financial aid applications.
To arrange for these services, contact the homeless program specialist at (208) 468-4601, ext. 1161, or your school counselor for a referral.