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McKinney Vento

EDUCATION FOR HOMELESS CHILDREN & YOUTH

The Colonial School District shall adhere to the provisions of the federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. This law minimizes educational disruptions experienced by students who are experiencing homelessness.
Under McKinney-Vento, homeless students are guaranteed the right to a free, appropriate, public education. When students become homeless, they can remain enrolled in the schools they have been attending, although they might no longer meet residency requirements. McKinney-Vento also guarantees homeless students the right to enroll in a public school even if they lack the typically required documents and immunizations. In addition, homeless students are guaranteed the transportation they need to attend school.

According to McKinney-Vento, “homeless” can be defined as an individual who lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence, including children and youth:

  • Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks or camping grounds due to lack of alternative adequate housing
  • Living in emergency or transitional housing
  • Abandoned in hospitals
  • Awaiting foster care
  • Having a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed for regular sleeping accommodations
  • Living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations
  • Migratory students meeting the descriptions above

To see if your family is eligible for McKinney Vento services please contact:

District Liaison for Homeless Education
Ed Stephan
Edward.Stephan@colonial.k12.de.us
District Homeless Coordinator
302-323-2700
318 East Basin Road, New Castle, De 19720