Homeless children face a myriad of issues, not the least of which is the ability to get a quality education. Unfortunately, the incidence of homeless families has been on the rise since the economic downturn began. Across the country, schools are working hard to ensure homeless students get a level playing field, with the hopes these children can get the education they need to move out of a life of poverty.
The National Law Center on Homelessness & Poverty states: "Homeless children and youth often have problems enrolling and participating in school. As a result, Congress passed the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act in 1987. This law gives homeless children and youth the right to:
- 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.
Identifying Homeless Children
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.
Sometimes homeless students are identified directly, making it easy for school staff to provide the necessary assistance. However,
