McKinney-Vento
Homeless Education Program
McKinney-Vento Act & Foster Care
Every student at American Leadership Academy is given the opportunity to receive the best educational experience possible in a moral and wholesome environment, no matter what personal or familial challenges they are facing. This includes students experiencing homelessness or transition.
What is the McKinney-Vento Homeless Act?
The McKinney-Vento Homeless Act is a federal law that ensures educational rights and protections for children and youth experiencing homelessness. It was enacted in 1987 and requires public schools to provide equal access to education, remove barriers to enrollment, and support academic success for homeless students.
What is American Leadership Academy Students in Transition?
American Leadership Academy Students in Transition is our program for students transitioning from homelessness. This program allows for a shortened enrollment process as well as special accommodations for the student.
Who is considered homeless?
Students with an irregular or inadequate nighttime residence can be considered homeless. This may include:
- Students living in shared housing due to loss of housing or financial hardship
- Students living in public spaces, cars, hotels, or campgrounds due to lack of adequate accommodations
- Students living in shelters or transitional housing
- Students who live unaccompanied, whether they have run away or have been denied housing by their families
What resources are available to help ALA students in transition?
American Leadership Academy staff works to provide resources and support to Students in Transition as soon as they are identified. This may include help providing uniforms, school supplies, and basic toiletries, as well as other forms of support. Needs will be identified on a case-by-case basis.
What should parents do during this transition?
Parents should contact their child’s current school and explain the situation. Obtain any records the school has (including immunization records) and provide the school with a new address, if possible. Also, enroll your child in school as soon as possible, to expedite the process and avoid problems.
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.
Contact Information & Resources
Please direct immediate questions regarding eligibility and services to:
American Leadership Academy, Johnston K-12
Jordan McDaniel
McKinney-Vento Liaison
jordan.mcdaniel@alajohnston.org
Now Enrolling for 2026-2027
Kindergarten through Grade 12 · Public Tuition-Free Charter School