Mckinney-Vento

McKinney-Vento Student Rights

Every child deserves access to a quality education, regardless of their housing situation. Homelessness is never a reason to separate a student from the mainstream school environment. We are committed to ensuring that students experiencing housing transitions have access to the exact same educational programs, support services, and high academic standards as all other students.

For more information on student rights and our policies, please review:

ALA Charlotte McKinney-Vento Information      C1 Dispute Policy

A young girl in a red shirt is sitting at a desk, reading a book, while an adult woman in a green sweater is sitting next to her and assisting her.

Know Your Rights

Students experiencing homelessness have the right to:

  • Free Public Education: Students are entitled to a free and appropriate public education, just like their peers.
  • Immediate Enrollment: Schools must enroll students immediately, even if required documents are missing.
  • Document Grace Period: Students can attend and receive services while the school gathers missing records.
  • School Choice & Stability: Students may stay in their school of origin or enroll in a school near where they are living, depending on what’s in their best interest.
  • Dispute Resolution: If a placement decision is challenged, the district must provide a written explanation and allow an appeal.
  • Transportation Support: Transportation to the school of origin must be provided if requested.
  • Equal Access to Services: Students must receive the same educational services and support programs as all other students, based on their needs.