Youth and Families Experiencing Homelessness
Everyone who has experienced homelessness has a story to tell. There may be common themes, but it's their unique story. The design and creation of this image came from research when people from our community told their story around this issue. The voices came from people who are currently experiencing homelessness, experienced homelessness as a child, or who have a close relationship with someone experiencing homelessness. The image captures the reoccurring words and themes that came from these voices. We thank them for sharing their truth.
Hopkins Public Schools ensures the provision of educational rights and protections for children and youth experiencing homelessness under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. Click here for more information about the Mc-Kinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.
Who is considered homeless?
Under the McKinney-Vento Act, homeless children and youth are defined as those who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. This includes anyone who, due to lack of housing:
Lives in emergency or transitional shelters.
Lives in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or campgrounds due to lack of adequate alternative accommodations.
Is awaiting foster care placement.
Lives in a public or private place not designed for human habitation.
Lives in cars, parks, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train station, etc.
Is doubled up with relatives or friends.
What rights do homeless children and youth have?
To go to school, no matter where the child lives or how long the child has lived there.
To continue in the school they attended before becoming homeless (school of origin) or enroll in the local school where they are temporarily housed.
To receive transportation to and from the school of origin, if feasible and in the best interest of the child.
To enroll in school immediately.
To enroll and attend classes while the school arranges for the transfer of school records, immunization records, or any other documents required for enrollment.
To participate fully in school activities.
To receive the same special programs and services such as preschool, free school meals, ELL, special education, Title I, gifted and talented services, and before- and after-school programs, if needed, as provided to all other children served in these programs.
Link here to Hennepin County Homeless and Housing Resources.
For additional information regarding McKinney-Vento services at Hopkins Public Schools, please contact:
Holly Magdanz
District McKinney-Vento Liaison
952-988-4130
Holly.Magdanz@HopkinsSchools.org