Children account for the fastest growing segment of the homeless population in the U.S., with over one million children experiencing homelessness each year.

In one year, a typical homeless family moves 7-8 times. While families and shelters work to fulfill the basic human needs - food, clothing and shelter - the educational needs of children and youth experiencing homelessness are often pushed aside.

To learn more about the issue, please check out the variety of resources listed below.

McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act
McKinney-Vento is the primary piece of federal legislation dealing with the education of children and youth experiencing homelessness in U.S. public schools. It was reauthorized as Title X, Part C, of the No Child Left Behind Act in January 2002.
Text of McKinney-Vento Act

100 Frequently Asked Questions
This document provides answers to 100 frequently asked questions on the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act and the education rights of children and youth in homeless situations. This document is meant to provide basic information and tools to assist educators and advocates in understanding the McKinney-Vento Act.
100 Frequently Asked Questions

Online Training Presentations
These presentations, complete with audio and video, give brief introductions to key issues covered in the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. Most presentations offer a downloadable summary of main points and certificate of completion, upon completing a brief quiz on the material presented. The quiz and certificate of completion are optional.

Help When You Need It: Information for Parents on How Schools Can Help During Homelessness

Homeless with Homework: An Introduction to Homeless Education

Providing Equal Access: Enrolling Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness

Issue Briefs
This series of briefs discusses selected issues pertaining to the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act and offer strategies for implementation.

Enrollment

Domestic Violence, Homelessness, and Children's Education

Identifying Students in Homeless Situations

Introduction to the Issues

Migrant Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness

Unaccompanied Youth

Who is Homeless?