McKinney-Vento/ Homeless Resources
We are committed to supporting students and families experiencing homelessness within our district. The McKinney-Vento Act ensures that homeless students have the same educational opportunities as their peers, and we are here to assist you every step of the way.
What is McKinney-Vento?
- Stewart B McKinney Homeless Assistance Act was signed by President Reagan and became law on July 22, 1987.
- The Act required states to ensure that all children experiencing temporary housing have the same right to a free and appropriate public education as children not experiencing housing issues.
- In 1990 Congress expanded the state’s responsibility to eliminate all barriers to education
- In 1990 funding was made available through the McKinney grant to help provide and array of educational and support services responsive to the needs of students experiencing housing issues.
- All school districts are required to have someone on staff responsible for ensuring that students in temporary housing are able to attend school and eliminate barriers to their education
- It is currently named the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Act
Which students qualify for services?
- Students who do not have a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence qualify for services
Examples, but not limited to:- Shelters
- Motels/hotels
- Living with friends or relatives due to economic difficulty
- Living in a campground or campsite
- Unaccompanied Youth (young persons not in the care of biological parent or legally adopted)
What should you do if you think your student might qualify?
- All schools in the Douglas School District are aware of referral protocols
- Ask the school office staff for the form and complete it
- Return the form to school
- One of the McKinney-Vento staff will contact you to discuss your situation and decide if you qualify
- If you qualify support for your student will begin
- If it is determined that you do not qualify but you disagree contact the McKinney Vento Coordinator or the office of Federal Programs
If your student qualifies, what kind of services are available? Services are dependent on the needs of each individual student.
- All students are able to enroll and attend school immediately
- All students qualify for free lunch
- All students receive backpacks and school supplies
- Some students qualify for additional services that are necessary to eliminate barriers to school attendance and school success may include, but are not limited to help with transportation or clothing needs.
- Many students and their families are referred to other agencies for additional services provided in the community
What McKinney Vento does not do?
The McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Act does not provide funding for:
- Housing
- Utilities
- Medical services
- Cell phones
- Storage rent
- Motel rent
Do you want to discuss your student’s situation with someone?
- The McKinney-Vento Coordinator is available on all days that school is in session 7 am to 3:30 pm.
- The office is located in 421 Don Williams Drive, Box Elder, SD 57719
- You may call the Carrousel Building 605-923-0090
- You can also discuss with your school counselor or principal is always available if you prefer to discuss the situation with them first.
Our Team
- We are here to help. Douglas Family Services Team: (605) 923-0090
- Monica Waltman, Douglas School District McKinney Vento Liaison
- Karissa Perez, Douglas School District McKinney Vento Social Worker
- Angela Ausman, Douglas School District Special Education Case Worker
How We Can Help?
- Enrollment Support: We assist with school enrollment and placement, even if you don't have the usual documentation. If you do not have the required documentation (birth certificate and immunizations) this will not delay your ability to start school.
- Transportation: We provide transportation assistance to ensure students can attend school regularly.
- Referrals: We connect families to community resources for housing, food, and other essential services.
- Educational Services: We offer additional support services to help students succeed academically. (Tutoring, Mental Health Referrals, clothing, shoes, and more)
Get Started
- Please complete our McKinney-Vento/Homeless Intake Form to begin the process of receiving assistance. [Intake Form]
- It's important to know your rights as a homeless student or family. Our "Know Your Rights" brochure provides essential information to help you understand what to expect and how to advocate for your child's education. [Intake Form]
- Need Immediate Assistance contact 211 Helpline Center for information and resources.
