McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act

Every Child Without a Permanent Home has a Right to an Education

If you live in a shelter, motel, vehicle, campground, on the street, in an abandoned building, trailer, or other inadequate accommodations; or with friends or relatives because you cannot find or afford housing, then your child has certain rights and protections under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act.

Your child has the right to:

  • Access the same free and appropriate public education, including a public preschool education, as provided to all other children

  • Remain in the school he/she attended before becoming homeless

  • Receive transportation to the school he/she attended before becoming homeless or the school he/she last attended if you or a guardian requests such transportation

  • Enroll in school without giving a permanent address. Schools cannot require proof of residency that might prevent or delay school enrollment

  • Enroll and attend classes while the school arranges for the transfer of school and immunization records or any other documents required for enrollment

  • Enroll and attend classes in the school of your choice even while the school and you seek to resolve disputes over enrolling your child

  • Receive the same special programs and services, if needed, as provided to all other children

If you need help getting your child into school, contact:

Wareham Public Schools District Homeless Liaison

Melissa Fay 508-291-3500 508-291-3543 (Fax) mfay@wareham.k12.ma.us

Other Helpful Resources

If you have any questions or need help with appeal, please contact the homeless liaison above or:

The Department of Education State Coordinator

Elizabeth Harris, Student Support Sarah Slautterback, State Coordinator

Program Phone Number: (781) 338-629 Email Address: HomelessEd@doe.mass.edu

The Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless (866) 205-1700 x100 (Toll-free)

Resource Guide for the Housing Insecure - Turning Point Street Sheet

Additional Information