The educational barriers experienced by students in homeless situations are often more complex and challenging than those experienced by other students. By definition, these students are “individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.” Additional support is available for students experiencing homelessness.
It is the policy of Birmingham City Schools to provide all students, including language minority students, migrant students, and homeless students, with meaningful and appropriate educational programs allowing all students the same benefits and rights of participation regardless of race, color, disability, sex, religion, national origin, or age.
The McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Act defines a homeless individual as one who lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.
If your family lives in any of the following situations, you may be considered homeless:
In a shelter, motel, vehicle, or campground
On the street
In an abandoned building, trailer, or other inadequate accommodations
Doubled up with friends or relatives because you cannot find or afford housing
If your child is considered eligible for services that are offered to students experiencing homelessness, he/she has the right to:
Access to the same public education as other children
Continue in the school they attended before becoming homeless, if feasible.
Participate in all programs and activities with students that are not homeless.
Enroll immediately in school. The school(s) will work with parents to obtain necessary records.
Additional services and resources may be provided to students who are experiencing homelessness.