- Remain in the same school even if they move;
- Enroll in a new school without typically required records such as proof of
- residency, immunizations, school records, or other papers;
- Get transportation to school;
- Get all the school services they need; and
- Challenge decisions made by schools and districts.
This video looks at the issue of homeless high school students.
According to the National Association of School Psychologists, "homeless children include those who lack a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence." This might include children who live in shared housing, motels, cars or shelters.
- Children may exhibit signs of increased sleepiness.
- Children may wear the same clothing to school over and over.
- Teachers may observe abrupt changes in appearance and habits.
- Children may suffer from a decreasing quality of schoolwork.
- Children may experience a higher than average rate of absence.
Homeless students come from every race and background, and most are living in single-parent families. Mothers of such families often have a higher rate of depression and substance abuse, and some have experienced some sort of physical abuse. These characteristics trickle down to the children, making it even more difficult for students to socialize normally or perform well in their studies.
This video offers some suggestions for identifying homeless students.
Homeless in Indiana