🏠McKinney-Vento Act (Support for Homeless Students)
Every Child Has the Right to an Education
The federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act ensures that children and youth experiencing homelessness have the same access to a free and appropriate public education as all other students.
Students experiencing homelessness must have access to the supports they need to meet Florida’s academic standards. They may not be separated from their peers simply because of their housing situation.
Who Qualifies as Homeless?
A child or youth is considered homeless if they do not have a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. This may include:
- Living in a shelter or motel
- Staying in a car, campground, or park
- Living on the street or in an abandoned building
- Staying temporarily with relatives or friends due to loss of housing or financial hardship (“doubledup”)
MCPS Families in Transition (FIT) Program
Our district's Families in Transition Program supports students experiencing homelessness by:
- Advocating for students and their families
- Ensuring students are not stigmatized due to their housing situation
- Providing school supplies
- Working with transportation to arrange school transportation when appropriate
- Helping families complete enrollment and obtain school, medical, or identification records
- Coordinating with community agencies to provide essential needs and services
- Raising awareness among school staff about the rights and needs of homeless students
Learn more about our school district’s MCPS Homeless Students Policy
Helpful Resources