Supporting Partners

Homelessness - McKinney-Vento Act

Families Experiencing Homelessness
The Lafayette Parish Homeless Children/Youth Education Program is based on the philosophy that education is the key to overcome and prevent the cycle of homelessness in families. Program activities are based on educational principles and have the common purpose of contributing to the positive physical, emotional, social, and academic growth of each child whose life we touch.

Who is eligible to receive Homeless Education Services (HES)?

The McKinney-Vento Act defines “homeless” as anyone without a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. This includes children:

·       Living in hotels, motels, public spaces, substandard housing (no heat or running water)

·       Living in shelters

·       Unaccompanied youth

·       Doubled-up temporarily with another family due to economic hardship

What services are available?

For families who qualify for Homeless Education Services, we are able to:

·       Assist with school enrollment, school uniforms, and school supplies

·       Work with the family and the school to ensure the student receives all needed educational services

·       Assist with obtaining necessary school documentation and records

·       Keep the student enrolled in their School of Origin (if it is the parent’s wish)

·       Arrange school transportation

·       Coordinate and make referrals to community agencies for needed services

How to contact the Homeless Education Program?

Visit their office at: 207 Town Center Pkwy, Lafayette, LA 70506 or call 337.521.7249

Foster Care

How are children in foster care defined?

24-hour substitute care/for children placed away from their parents or guardians/and for whom the child welfare agency has placement and care responsibility. This includes, but is not limited to, placements in foster family homes, foster homes of relatives, group homes, emergency shelters, residential facilities, child care institutions, and pre-adoptive homes.

How to contact the Foster Care Liaison?

Visit their office at: 207 Town Center Pkwy, Lafayette, LA 70506 or call (337) 521-7201 or (337) 521-7174.

ESL - English Learners

While English Learner programming does not begin until Kindergarten within the Lafayette Parish School System, select classrooms and programs offer a variety of services to students with a variety of home languages.

For more information, contact the Early Childhood office at 337-521-7134.