GRAHAM ISD

SERVICES FOR STUDENTS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS

Under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, schools must identify children and youth in homeless situations and provide appropriate services including immediate enrollment in school and participation in the school lunch program.

Graham ISD includes a residency questionnaire in each enrollment packet that helps identify those students who may be in need of assistance due to homelessness or as unaccompanied youth. Any child or youth whose status changes during the school year may request the form from the school office.

The term “homeless children and youth” means individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence and includes children and youths who are sharing the housing of others due to loss of housing or economic hardship; are living in motels, trailer parks or cam ping grounds due to the lack of alternative accommodations; are living in emergency shelters; are abandoned in hospitals; or are awaiting foster care placement. Children and youths who have a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designated for or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation such as those living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings may meet the definition of homeless.

Should you or your child find yourself in these circumstances, even temporarily, there are services to help. Please speak with the school counselor who will forward the information to the district’s homeless coordinator so that your child can be enrolled and receive services. In addition to participation in the school lunch program, the counselor should be able to provide school supplies if needed and direct you to other community resources.

Student Residency Form (also available at the school office or from the school counselor)

Directory of Community Resources

Texas Homeless Education Office: http://www.utdanacenter.org/theo/