Henry County Schools is committed to helping every student succeed, including those who are experiencing homelessness or unstable housing.

What is the McKinney-Vento Act?

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, reauthorized by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) of 2015, ensures that children and youth experiencing homelessness have equal access to the same free, appropriate public education as other children.

This law requires school districts to:

• Remove barriers to enrollment and participation in school.

• Provide needed services and supports for students who qualify.

• Work with families to promote school stability and keep students in their school of origin whenever possible, as frequent school moves can negatively impact learning and social growth.

Who Qualifies as “Homeless”?

Under the McKinney-Vento Act, children and youth are considered homeless if they lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. This includes:

• Living with others due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or similar reason.

• Staying in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or campgrounds because there are no other adequate options.

• Living in emergency or transitional shelters.

• Being abandoned in hospitals.

• Having a primary nighttime residence in a place not meant for human habitation (e.g., cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings).

• Living in substandard housing or in bus/train stations.

• Migratory children who are living in any of the above circumstances.

(Note: Since December 10, 2016, “awaiting foster care placement” is no longer included in this definition.)

Student & Parent Rights Under McKinney-Vento

If your child qualifies, he or she has the right to:

• Immediate enrollment in school, even without required documents (such as proof of residency, immunization, or school records).

• Attend the school of origin (the school last attended) if it is in the student’s best interest.

• Transportation assistance to and from school of origin, if requested.

• Access to school meals, programs, and activities available to all students.

• Support services to help ensure academic success.

Dispute Resolution Process

If a parent, guardian, or unaccompanied youth disagrees with a school district decision about school placement or services:

• You have the right to appeal the decision.

• Information on the dispute process is available in the McKinney-Vento State Level Dispute Resolution Form (2020).

• The appeal form, Dispute Resolution Form 2020, can also be provided upon request.

✅ For more information or assistance, please contact:
David Kibbler, Homeless Liaison
📞 731-642-9733

Henry County Schools is here to ensure every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.

TDOE Homeless Students