Helping students in transition attend and succeed in school
Every child has a right to a public education, but when your home is in turmoil, it can be overwhelming to navigate school and social services systems. Schoolhouse Link is here to be your advocate.
McKinney-Vento Services (McKinney-Vento Act 2001) are provided to students in residential transition to help them enroll, attend and/or succeed in school. In Sarasota County these services are provided through the Schoolhouse Link program, a partnership between the Sarasota Y and the Sarasota County School Board. In addition, the program provides support to the whole family by linking them with essential service providers and community resources.
Under the McKinney-Vento Act, a family is considered to be in transition or homeless if they:
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Are temporarily "doubled up" with relatives or friends due to financial reasons
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Are in emergency or transitional shelters
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Are temporarily in motels, hotels, trailer parks or campgrounds because of finances
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Are awaiting permanent placement in foster care
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Are in cars, parks, public places, bus or train stations or abandoned buildings
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Are migratory children living in these conditions
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Are "Unaccompanied Youth" - not in the physical custody of the parent or guardian in any of the above situations.
Children in transition (or homeless) have the right to:
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Enroll and attend school no matter where they live or how long they have lived there
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Have access to the same public education provided to housed children
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Enroll in school without a permanent address. (Enrollment cannot be delayed due to a lack of residency)
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Request assistance with transportation to school
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Have any enrollment disputes heard and resolved while the student continues to attend class
For more information or assistance, call 923-6100.