Mckinney Vento Act - What Community Rebuilders Hrs's Need To Know

Homeless children can enroll in school even if they do not have all required documentation, provided they have a current immunization record.

The purpose of the Mckinney Vento Act is to ensure that homeless children can attend summer camp and participate in extracurricular sports activities just like other children.

Homeless children and youth covered under McKinney Vento include those who are living in shelters, cars, parks,motels, but not those who are living with others.

Parents can decide if their children should attend the same school he/she attended before becoming homeless or the school nearest the temporary shelter or other temporary housing.

Family advocacy and tutoring are two services which can be offered under Mckinney Vento.

McKinney Vento covers only homeless families, not those with an eviction notice since they are only "at risk".

The fear of being stigmatized for being homeless prevents some families from being identified.  

Schools must provide homeless children with transportation  services comparable to those provided to non-homeless children.

If a problem arises between school and parents, parents can file a grievance.  Their child can remain in school and receive transportation while the dispute is being resolved.

The McKinney Vento Act was passed by The Grand Rapids City Commission in 2002.