Children and youth who experience homelessness ― including those living in shelters, doubled-up due to economic circumstances, in temporary housing, or “couch-surfing” ― have important legal rights to education under a federal law called the McKinney-Vento Act and Missouri state law. The McKinney-Vento Act requires that a student experiencing homelessness receive equal access to the same free, appropriate public education, including public preschool education and special education, as provided to other children. Missouri state law also emphasizes that students experiencing homelessness are exempt from proof of residency requirements.
In particular, under the McKinney Vento Act, a student experiencing homelessness:
- Must be provided transportation to and from the school of origin or the school of residency. Transportation must be arranged immediately and cannot create a barrier or an undue burden for attendance.
- Must be allowed to immediately enroll in school, even if the student lacks certain enrollment documents, such as proof of residency, immunization records, or school records.
- Qualifies for free school meals and other support, such as fee waivers, school supplies, and referrals to health and social services.
- Has the right to a dispute resolution process if they (or their parent) disagree with the school district on a decision related to eligibility, enrollment, transportation, or school selection.
Please see the linked resources for more information:
