Homeless Information

Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness (ECYEH)

Homeless Information for Families

What does HOMELESS mean as it relates to students in Pennridge School District?

The McKinney-Vento Act defines “homeless children and youth” as individuals who. lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.

What rights are granted to students who meet the definition of HOMELESS under the McKinney-Vento Act?

Homeless students have the right to school placement in the best interest of the child.
- The district will comply, to the extent feasible, with the request made by a parent or guardian regarding school selection, will attempt to minimize disruptions and will maintain the highest possible degree of continuity in programs for all homeless students.
- The student may be able to continue attending the school they attended prior to the event that caused them to become homeless. This right continues as long as the student remains homeless, and will continue for the remainder of the school year, even if the student becomes “permanently housed” during the academic year, or
- The student may enroll in any public school that non-homeless students who live in the attendance area in which the child or youth is actually living are eligible to attend.

Students have the right to immediate enrollment even if the child or youth lacks records normally required for enrollment, such as previous academic records, medical records, proof of residency or other documentation.

Students have the right to transportation to and from their school of origin.

Students have the right to access the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program

Students have the right to dispute decisions regarding enrollment, school selection, homeless status and complaints of non-compliance with legal requirements pertaining to the education for homeless children and youths

What can I do if I disagree with the District’s decisions regarding enrollment, school selection, homeless status or if I have complaints of non-compliance with legal requirements pertaining to the education for homeless children and youths?

You may contact your school administrator or the Homeless Student Liaison to discuss your concerns.
You may start a formal dispute process. More information on the formal dispute process can be found here.

What can I do if I have more questions about my rights under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act?