Homelessness/Displaced Students
McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act
In 1987, Congress passed the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act, (subsequently renamed the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act) to aid homeless persons. The Act defines the term "homeless children and youths" as individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. On December 10, 2015, the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) was enacted, amending McKinney-Vento.
What is the definition of a “homeless youth” under McKinney-Vento?
“Homeless” is defined as “anyone lacking a fixed, adequate, regular nighttime residence.”
What situations fit this definition?
Staying in the home of other people due to unavailable housing, financial hardship, or similar circumstances
Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks (in some instances – examples: leaking roof, no heat, etc.), public places, or campgrounds due to unavailable suitable housing options
Living in an emergency shelter or transitional housing
Unaccompanied (not living in direct care of legal parent or guardian) or runaway youth
Refugee and migrant youth
How does McKinney-Vento help these students?
The law makes sure that these students receive a free and suitable public education by removing barriers to school enrollment and full, basic, daily participation in school activities. This includes:
Immediate enrollment
Free and Reduced School Lunch
Help from school with any necessary enrollment documents
Help from school setting up transportation service (if the student qualifies)
Help from school with getting basic uniform clothing
Help from school with basic school supplies
Help from school with any basic clothing needs
Help from school with basic high school graduation needs and expenses
Click here for a link to the Basic Education Circular on the PDE website.
The McKinney-Vento liaison at MaST III Campus is Ms.Kirby. Ms. Kirby has served MaST Community Charter School III as a school counselor for a number of years. As the McKinney-Vento Liaison, she is responsible for ensuring that our school is supporting the scholars and families protected by the McKinney-Vento Homelessness Act.
For more information and/or guidance, she can be reached at nkirby@mast3.org.
Need assistance with health insurance for your child? Apply for CHIP here.
Thank you to these organizations for connecting with us to support our students!
The Eagles Charitable Foundation Eagle Eye Mobile
The Beds for Kids organization
McKinney-Vento Letter to Families
PA Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness Website
McKinney-Vento and COVID-19 Information for Parents
Pennsylvania’s Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness – Dispute Process
Pennsylvania’s Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness – Dispute Letter
City of Phila Office of Homeless Services