McKinney Vento Act

The McKinney Act of 1987, or P.L. 100-77, ensures that each child of a homeless individual, and each homeless youth shall have equal access to the same free, appropriate public education as provided to other children and youth. Under the Act, schools are prohibited from delaying a homeless child’s entry into school due to delays in obtaining school records. Rules regarding guardianship must be waived for homeless students living with foster parents or relatives other than their legal guardians.

Who is eligible for services? "homeless children and youths"-- means individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. For example: “doubled-up”, living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, camp grounds, transitional shelters, abandoned in hospitals, awaiting foster care placement, locations not designed as sleeping accommodations, cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations or is a migratory child whose nighttime residence is one of these described.

The Utah Virtual Academy can offer school supplies and Title I services to qualifying homeless youth. Determinations of qualifying students are made on a case-by-case basis.

Parents may review the Utah Virtual Academy’s Admission of Homeless Children and Youth policy by calling the school office at (801)262-4922.