The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act ensures that all children and youth have equal access to a free, appropriate public education—even if they lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.
Students may qualify if they are:
- Sharing housing due to economic hardship or loss of housing
- Living in motels, hotels, shelters, or temporary housing
- Staying in cars, parks, public spaces, or substandard housing
- Without a permanent residence
McKinney-Vento eligible students have the right to:
- Enroll in school immediately, even without required documents
- Continue attending their school of origin if in their best interest
- Receive transportation to and from the school of origin (if requested)
- Access educational and support services comparable to other students
- Receive free school meals