Students Experiencing Homelessness

The Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act became law on July 22, 1987. This was the first comprehensive federal statute addressing homelessness issues in the United States. The 2001 McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Improvements Act was subsequently added to the No Child Left Behind Act and is now known as the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Improvements Act of 2001.

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (McKinney-Vento Act) authorizes the Education for Homeless Children and Youths (EHCY) program, which is designed to meet the needs of homeless children and youths and safeguard their educational rights and protections. The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) revised the McKinney-Vento Act, and on October 1, 2016, the ESSA's amendments took effect.

The Education for Homeless Children and Youth Program was established in 1988 by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. The primary objective of this legislation is to guarantee that homeless children and youth have equal access to a free and appropriate public education throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Who Qualifies

“Children and youth experiencing homelessness” means children who have no fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. They may be found in the following situations:

Public or private shelters.
Public or private places not designated for/or ordinarily used as regular sleeping accommodations such as vehicles, parks, motels, campgrounds, etc.
Living with a parent in a domestic violence shelter.
Individuals and/or families living with relatives or friends due to lack of housing.
Living in transitional housing programs.
Children of migrant families who lack adequate housing.
Children abandoned in hospitals or awaiting foster care.
Unaccompanied youth (under age 18) and children who have been abandoned or forced out of the home by parents or other caretakers. They may be in temporary shelters awaiting assistance from social service agencies, or may live alone on the street or move from place to place among family members, friends, or acquaintances. This also includes such youth from 18-21 of age who may still be eligible for educational services in regular or special education.

Student Rights

School Choice If a student becomes homeless during the academic year or between academic years, they may continue in their “school of origin” for the rest of that year if this is in the best interest of the student.
Eligibility for Free and Reduced Lunches
Eligibility for Title I support services
Transportation services arranged by Penn Hills School District
Home/School Visitor (School Social Worker) to support and provide resources for the family.

Dispute Process

The dispute resolution process for homeless students in Pennsylvania follows procedures mandated by the McKinney-Vento Act, ensuring prompt resolution of disputes related to the educational placement of homeless children and youths. It includes immediate enrollment in the chosen school pending dispute resolution, issuance of written notices about school selection and enrollment decisions, and a structured appeal process. The process begins at the local education agency (LEA) level and can escalate to filing a complaint with a McKinney-Vento coordinator for further review and resolution. For more detailed information, you can visit the official page here:

Dispute Resolution Process

Dispute Letter (English)

Dispute Letter (Spanish)

Where to Turn for Help

If you feel you and your family is experiencing homelessness, please contact our homeless liaison, school principal or school counselor in order to receive appropriate services.

Kyoko Henson	District Homeless Liaison	412-793-7000 x1218
Nicole Anderson	Allegheny Intermediate Unit	412-394-5700
	Homeless Children and Youth Program (PDE)	717-783-6466

Addressing the Impact of Evictions on Homelessness: A Call for Action and Support

Evictions play a significant role in exacerbating homelessness, serving as both a cause and a symptom of deeper systemic issues. When individuals or families are evicted, they often face immediate housing instability, which can lead to homelessness. The loss of a home impacts not just the physical shelter but also affects mental health, employment opportunities, and access to education and healthcare. Preventing evictions and providing support to those at risk are crucial steps in addressing the broader challenge of homelessness, highlighting the need for comprehensive housing policies and social safety nets.

Eviction Disparities in Communities of Color

Evictions: A Precursor to Homelessness

Fact Sheet