Common Signs and Red Flags of Homelessness

Attendance at many different schools

Missing records needed to enroll

Inability to pay fees

Gaps in skill development

Mistaken assessment ofabilities

Poor organizational skills

Poor ability to conceptualize

Missing immunizations & medical records

Unmet medical & dental needs

Respiratory problems

Skin rashes

Chronic hunger or food hoarding

Fatigue (may fall asleep in class)

Erratic attendance and tardiness

Numerous absences

Lack ofparticipation in afterschool activities

Lack ofparticipation in field trips

Inability to contact parents

Lacking shower facilities/washers, etc.

Wearing clothes several days

Inconsistent grooming

Consistent lack of preparation f,or school

Incomplete or missing homework

Unable to complete special proiects

Lacking basic school supplies

Loss of book and supplies on regular basis

Elevated concern for safety of belongings

A marked change in behavior

Poor/short attention span

Poor self-esteem

Extreme shyness

Unwilling to form relationships with peers & teachers

Difficulty socializing at recess or lunch periods

Difficulty trusting people

Aggression

"Old" beyond years

Overly protective of parents

Clinging behavior

Developmental delays

Fear of abandonment

School phobia (afraid to leave parent)

Anxiety, especially late in the school day

Exhibiting anger or embarrassment when asked about current address

Avoidance of questions related to current address

Statements about staing with grandparents, other relatives, friends, or in motels & campgrounds

Statements such as:

• "l don't remember the name of the last school."

• "We've been moving around a lot."

• "Our address is new; I can't remember it."

• "We're staying with relatives until we get settled."

• "We're going through a bad time right now."