Homeless and Foster Care
Homeless
We support students experiencing housing instability by partnering with district liaisons to ensure enrollment, academic support, and stability.
General Information
Students experiencing homelessness have the right to:
- receive a free, appropriate public education
- enroll in school immediately, even if lacking documents that are normally required
- enroll in the local school or continue at their school of origin
- receive transportation to and from the school of origin if needed
- eligibility for federal breakfast and lunch programs
- receive educational services comparable to other children, according to their needs
Resources
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Services
- Regional support to Allegan AESA and Kent ISD local education agencies through our McKinney-Vento consortium and grant
- Onboarding and technical assistance for School Homeless Liaisons
- Targeted professional learning on the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Act
Additional Information
- Allegan County Coordinated Entry
- Arbor Circle Youth Services
- Ark Services for Youth
- AYA Youth Collective
- Covenant House Grand Rapids
- Kent County Coordinated Entry
- MDE McKinney-Vento Homeless Education
- National Center on Homeless Education
Foster Care
We support students experiencing foster care transitions by partnering with district liaisons to ensure enrollment, academic support, and stability.
General Information
Children and Youth in Foster Care have the right to:
- School stability through the Fostering Connections Act and new protections that are part of Title 1a in the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)
- An education plan that includes transportation to maintain school of origin, arranged by the child welfare agency
- Expedited enrollment if a change in school is required
- Categorical eligibility for federal school nutrition programs and Title 1a services
Resources
Find Your Local District Foster Care Liaison
Services
- School Selection and graduation pathway guidance
- Coordination with child welfare agencies on best interest determinations
- Onboarding and technical assistance for School Foster Care Liaisons
Additional Information
If you would like support in this area, please complete the Request Form and we will respond to your request.
