Children's Homeless Intervention Project

Title IX, Part A of the Every Student Succeeds Act

Full text of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act

The Federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act states that children and youth who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence are considered homeless.

The Monroe County School District has created the Children's Homeless Intervention Project for Students (CHIPS) program to address the needs of students who are living in transition.

View the full MCSD Homeless Policy

MVA Staff Training Video 2024-2025

Eligibility

If, due to a loss of housing, a child or youth must live in a shelter, motel, vehicle, or campground, on the street, in abandoned buildings, or doubled-up with relatives or friends, then he/she is eligible to receive services provided under the McKinney-Vento Act.

Children and Youth Rights

Under the McKinney - Vento Act, children and young people in homeless situations have the right to:

Go to school, no matter where they live or how long they have lived there.

Attend either the local school or the school of origin, if this is in their best interest; the school of origin is the school the child attended when he/she was permanently housed or the school in which the child was last enrolled.

Receive transportation to and from the school of origin

Enroll in school immediately, even if they are missing records and documents normally required for enrollment, such as birth certificates, proof of residence, previous school records, or immunization/medical records.

Enroll, attend classes, and participate fully in all activities while the school gathers records.

Have access to the same programs and services that are available to all other students, including transportation and supplemental services

Attend a school with children not experiencing homelessness; a school may not segregate a student because he or she is homeless.

Receive free meals through school nutrition programs.

Questions for Parents to Ask at School

Your children are encouraged by your interest in their day at school, their homework, and the papers they bring home. They also benefit when you take the time to ask questions or visit their school. You can learn more ways to support your child's learning from our Family Engagement web page. If your child qualifies under McKinney - Vento services, here are some questions you can ask at your child's school about special support that may be available.

1. Who is the CHIPS (Homeless Contact) at this school?
2. What transportation is available for my child to stay in school?
3. If my child changes schools, can you help us transfer records quickly?
4. How can my child receive free meals at school?
5. How can my child receive free school supplies if needed?
6. Who can help if my child needs special education services? How quickly can these services be set up?
7. What academic help is available for my child, such as after-school tutoring?
8. What programs can help develop my child's talents and address his/her unique needs?
9. Are there sports, music, or other activities available for my child?
10. How can my child go on class field trips or participate in other school activities if I can't pay for them?
11. Is there a pre-school program for my younger children?