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Find the Liaison in your school or district here. Homeless Liaison Contact List The liaison is responsible for identifying temporarily housed youth who may be eligible for enrollment in the school district and ensuring they receive the education and services they are guaranteed by law. Update Liaison Information Download List as Excel File Download List as PDF File New Resource SUNY Campus Homeless Liaisons Visit Website Please use the search field below to search by county, organization name, first or last name, email address, or phone. This searchable list BELOW is still under construction. If the list below does not load onscreen, please download either a CSV or PDF file by clicking on the purple buttons above. Search Sort By No Data Found!! Please try with some other search criteria. Click here to reset the search. COUNTY SCHOOL FIRST NAME LAST NAME EMAIL PHONE Albany Albany City SD Karla McDowell kmcdowell@albany.k12.ny.us (518) 475-6130 Albany Albany City SD Victoria Van Bramer vvanbramer@albany.k12.ny.us (518) 475-6134 Albany Albany Community Charter School Allaine Woodard awoodard@albanycommunitycs.org (518) 433-1500 Albany Albany Leadership Charter High School for Girls Tishina Bowden tbowden@albanyleadership.org 518-694-5300 Albany Albany Leadership Charter for Girls - Middle School Moesha Smith msmith@albanyleadership.org 518-694-5300 ext 502 Albany Berne-Knox-Westerlo CSD Mark Tidd mark.tidd@bkwschools.org (518) 872-1482 Albany Bethlehem CSD David Hurst dhurst@bethlehemschools.org (518) 439-3102 Albany Brighter Choice Charter School for Boys Yvonne Ramirez yramirez@brighterchoice.org (518) 603-1026 Albany Brighter Choice Charter School for Girls Yvonne Roman yroman@brighterchoice.org 518-694-8200 Albany Cohoes City SD Mayra Thomas mthomas@cohoes.org (518) 237-4131 ext. 2230 Albany Cohoes City SD Peggy O'Shea poshea@cohoes.org (518) 237-0100 x2350 Albany Cohoes City SD Raychel Marcil rmarcil@cohoes.org (518) 237-0100 ext 2320

Under the McKinney-Vento Act and N.Y. Education Law § 3209, a student in temporary housing is entitled to transportation to their school of origin. Get resources for more information on transportation. Transportation Under the McKinney-Vento Act and N.Y. Education Law § 3209, a student in temporary housing is entitled to transportation to their school of origin. Transportation protections include: Transportation to the school the student attended when they were last permanently housed up to 50 miles each way, or to the most recent school they attended, even if the school is in a different school district from where the student is temporarily living; Continued transportation to the same school for the rest of the academic year when the student moves into permanent housing, even if the new housing is located outside of the school district; In New York State, transportation is also provided for an extra year after the student moves into permanent housing if the extra year is the student's final year in the school building (for example, 12th grade); If a student in temporary housing attends school in the same district where they are temporarily housed, then they can get the same transportation as their permanently housed peers. If permanently housed students don't have transportation, and the lack of transportation creates a barrier for a student in temporary housing, then the district has to supply transportation to overcome the barrier; Transportation to extracurricular activities if the lack of transportation would be a barrier to the student participating. In New York State, the school district where the student attends school is the district that is responsible for providing transportation. Sometimes, the local department of social services (DSS) is responsible for transportation - for instance, where the student has been placed in a shelter outside of the school district and the student is eligible for Emergency Assistance for Families. The local DSS can meet their responsibility by asking the school district to supply the transportation and reimbursing the school district for the costs. FAQs for this topic Topic Resources View topic by category: Laws & Guidance NCHE Brief - Transporting Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness This issue brief from the National Center for Homeless Education (NCHE) provides helpful information on the key provisions related to the transportation of children and youth experiencing homelessness included in the McKinney-Vento Act. It addresses the impact of changing schools that can put students in homeless situations at risk of academic failure. Laws & Guidance Changes in Local District Responsibilities when Transporting Homeless Students The purpose of this GIS is to notify districts that the New York State Education Law, Section 3209, was recently amended to conform to Federal changes in the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act ensures homeless children are provided transportation to and from school. Certain changes to Section 3209 have an impact on districts’ responsibilities for transporting homeless students. Guides & Fact Sheets National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services Resolution to Support the Transportation of Homeless Children and Youth The National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services (NASDPTS) passed a resolution at its annual meeting in November 2000 stating its commitment to providing transportation services for homeless children. Guides & Fact Sheets Education Guide for Students in Shelter - SPANISH NYC Department of Education This Spanish language flyer provides information about education, including transportation services, for students living in shelters in New York City. This includes busing for students in K-6 and full-fare MetroCards for students in grades 7-12. Guides & Fact Sheets Education Guide for Students in Shelter - ENGLISH NYC Department of Education This English language flyer provides information about education, including transportation services, for students living in shelters in New York City. This includes busing for students in K-6 and full-fare MetroCards for students in grades 7-12. Guides & Fact Sheets Rural Transportation for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness Access to reliable transportation remains one of the most persistent challenges facing CYEH in rural communities across the United States. Guides & Fact Sheets NYC DOE Transportation Protocol This guide provides concise information on the transportation rights of students in temporary housing attending school in New York City. It includes information on available services, metro cards, and busing for students in shelter, students with door-to-door busing listed on their IEPs, and Pre-K students. This guide provides contact information and references to further resources, laws and guidance. Guides & Fact Sheets Quick Tip Sheet Series NYS-TEACHS Our Quick Tip Sheets provide detailed information about the rights of students experiencing homelessness in a one-page format. Each guide is targeted to a specific school role. Forms & Templates Sample Transportation Protocol NYS-TEACHS This Sample Transportation Protocol helps with communication and coordination between school districts and local departments of social services any time the local department of social services is responsible for arranging transportation for a student in temporary housing. This Protocol is a template that school districts and local departments of social services are encouraged to use. School districts and local departments of social services are also welcome to adapt this Protocol to meet their needs. Forms & Templates Office of Pupil Transportation: Busing Exception Request Form NYC Department of Education Students in temporary housing can request busing by filling out the Busing Exception Request Form for Students in Temporary Housing or Students in Foster Care and submitting it to OPT (Office of Pupil Transportation). Temporary housing includes homeless shelter, domestic violence shelter, living with others due to financial hardship ("doubled up"), displaced because of a fire, disaster, eviction, etc. This form can also be used if a student recently left temporary housing and has moved to permanent housing. Forms & Templates Runaway and Homeless Youth Act (RHYA) Transportation Reimbursement Form New York State Education Department Youth who are temporarily living in Runaway and Homeless Youth (RHY) shelters and who attend their school of origin in a different district from the shelter must receive free transportation to and from school. The school district of attendance must provide transportation and will be eligible for full reimbursement by NYSED. To arrange reimbursement, school districts should submit this form to: Jillena Strevell NYSED, P.O. Box 7256 Albany, NY 12224 Contact information for Jillena Strevell - Jillena.Strevell@nysed.gov Please send the completed form with a cover letter that includes: * your school district’s federal ID number; * the address where the reimbursement check should be sent; * the name of the runaway and homeless youth shelter; * the address of the runaway and homeless youth shelter; * contact information for the Director of the runaway and homeless youth shelter; and * an assurance from the school district that the facility is a runaway and homeless youth shelter. Laws & Guidance Non-Regulatory Guidance for the Education for Homeless Children and Youths United States Department of Education On March 2, 2017, the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) revised the Non-Regulatory Guidance for the Education for Homeless Children and Youths Program. This revised Non-Regulatory Guidance replaces the July 2016 Guidance and includes new questions and answers on the amendments to the McKinney-Vento Act made by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which took effect on October 1, 2016, and new technical assistance on promising practices for implementing homeless education requirements at the State and local levels. Laws & Guidance New York State Education Law Section 3209, Education of Homeless Children NYS Education Law Section 3209 describes the rights of students in temporary housing in New York State. Important changes to New York Education Law Section 3209 went into effect on April 20, 2017. The changes to this law reflect changes to the federal McKinney-Vento Act that were made under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). Below, along with the link to download the new text of the law, you will find a link to a marked-up version of Education Law § 3209 that highlights the changes. Laws & Guidance McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act, Reauthorized by Title IX, Part A of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) The McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act is a federal law that protects the public education of children and youth experiencing homelessness. The text attached here is the latest version of the law since it was reauthorized on December 10, 2015 by Title IX, Part A of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). Laws & Guidance New York State Education Law Section 3635, Transportation This State Education Law addresses school transportation. For more information about transportation for students who are homeless, please see our transportation page. Laws & Guidance Transportation from LDSS for Students Who Are Homeless OTDA Administrative Directive Under New York State law, in certain circumstances, the local social services is responsible for arranging and paying for transportation to and from school for students experiencing homelessness. Read this Administrative Directive to find out more about when the local department of social services is responsible for a student’s transportation. Please note: this document does not include information on the transportation changes made under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) which went into effect on October 1, 2016 or the changes to New York State Education Law Section 3209 which went into effect on April 20, 2017. Laws & Guidance Information on Transportation of Prekindergarten Students under Four Years of Age New York State Education Department This memorandum from the New York State Education Department (NYSED) Office of Early Learning and the Office of Educational Management Services provides information about student transportation safety for students under four years of age, including information on appropriate car seats and bus monitors. Guides & Fact Sheets Transportation Guide for Students in Temporary Housing This chart provides concise information on the transportation rights of students in temporary housing attending school in New York State. It includes information on available services, the responsible agency, and funding sources when serving students in many different housing situations, including for students attending charter schools.

Homeless education resources regarding higher education and postsecondary opportunities for students in temporary housing. Higher Education & Postsecondary Opportunities Higher education is a key to helping students experiencing homelessness escape poverty. There are several programs available through the federal Higher Education Act, such as the TRIO programs, that help students graduate from high school, apply and enroll in college, and complete their degrees. In December 2015, the McKinney-Vento Act was reauthorized as Title IX, Part A of the Every Student Succeeds Act. Under the amendments to McKinney-Vento, liaisons must make sure that unaccompanied homeless youth are informed of their status as independent students for college financial aid and that they get help verifying their status for the FAFSA. 42 U.S.C. § 11432(g)(6)(A)(x)(III). The amendments to McKinney-Vento also require that school districts advise, prepare, and improve the college readiness of students in temporary housing. 42 U.S.C. § 11432(g)(1)(K). FAQs for this topic Topic Resources View topic by category: Laws & Guidance Verification of Postsecondary Financial Aid Form Completion or Waiver New York State Education Department This NYSED Memo details that at the July 2024 Board of Regents meeting, the Board approved as an emergency adoption the amendment of Section 100.2 of the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education relating to completion of federal and state financial aid applications by seniors enrolled in school districts. Website The FAFSA Simplification Act: Youth Experiencing Homelessness and Youth with Experience in Foster Care The FAFSA Simplification Act (enacted as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2020 and updated by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021) aims to remove many of the barriers faced by youth experiencing homelessness or with experience in foster care. The new provisions for homeless and foster youth should go into effect for the 2023-2024 award year, and be reflected on the new FAFSA on October 1, 2022. Scholarships SchoolHouse Connection Youth Leadership and Scholarship Program This scholarship program provides scholarships, networking opportunities, and support services to students who have experienced homelessness applying or attending college. Scholarships SchoolHouse Connection Scholarship Program Flyer for School Year 2020-2021 View SchoolHouse Connection’s Youth Leadership & Scholarship Program’s informational flyer for school year 2020-2021! This scholarship provides an opportunity for youth who have experienced homelessness to ensure their completion of a post-secondary education program. Scholarships Scholarship Opportunities Here is a list of resources for college scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. Scholarships Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans The Horatio Alger Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to students in NYS who have exhibited integrity and perseverance in overcoming personal adversity, including homelessness, and who aspire to pursue higher education. Guides & Fact Sheets Understanding FAFSA: The How-To Guide for High School Students This guide is designed to help students and families navigate the U.S. Department of Education’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to get financial aid for college. The guide will be particularly useful for students who are among the first in their family to go to college, or are new to the country. It is available in English, Spanish, and eight other languages. Guides & Fact Sheets Toolkit for Undocumented Students A Guide for Undocumented Students Going Through the College Matriculation Process From CARA: Undocumented young people have a right to college. This toolkit is for them. The purpose of this resource is to help undocumented students realize their college dreams by presenting new ways to look at the college application process. We also hope educators, counselors, undocufriendly organizations, parent(s)/guardian(s), and young people will use this toolkit to help undocumented students pursue higher education, regardless of their immigration status. About the Source College Access: Research & Action (CARA). CARA’s mission is to ensure that first-generation college students, low-income students, and students of color have the knowledge and support necessary to enroll in and persist through college. Guides & Fact Sheets Tips for Helping Homeless Youth Succeed in College This tip sheet series from SchoolHouse Connection provides important information about helping homeless youth succeed in college. The series highlights best practices for supporting these students, which have been submitted from institutions across the country. The tip sheets are living documents that will be updated regularly to provide new and innovative practices. The series includes: Strategies for Transitioning from High School to College Strategies for Identifying Homeless College Students Strategies for Housing On and Off Campus Strategies for Accessing Financial Aid Strategies for Creating and Sustaining Campus-Based Programs About the Source From SchoolHouse Connection: SchoolHouse Connection is a national organization working to overcome homelessness through education. We provide strategic advocacy and technical assistance in partnership with early childhood programs, schools, institutions of higher education, service providers, families, and youth. We believe education is the only permanent solution to homelessness. Our vision is that children and youth experiencing homelessness have full access to quality learning, birth through higher education, so they will never be homeless as adults, and the next generation will never be homeless. Guides & Fact Sheets Superintendent Determination Option and Safety Net Options for Students with Disabilities New York State Education Department This presentation from NYSED’s Committee of Practitioners details the different safety net options for students with disabilities to graduate with a local diploma, including new information about Superintendent Determinations that went into effect in December 2017 and don’t have a minimum Regents exam score requirement. Guides & Fact Sheets Understanding FAFSA: The How-To Guide for High School Students The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the form you need to fill out to get any financial aid from the federal government to help pay for college. This guide is designed to help students and families navigate the U.S. Department of Education’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to get financial aid for college. The guide will be particularly useful for students who are among the first in their family to go to college or are new to the country. About the Source Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, the National Center for Homeless Education (NCHE) operates the Department’s technical assistance center for the federal Education for Homeless Children and Youth (EHCY) Program. In this role, NCHE works with schools, service providers, parents, and other interested stakeholders to ensure that children and youth experiencing homelessness can enroll and succeed in school. Guides & Fact Sheets Increasing Access to Higher Education for Unaccompanied Youth NCHE Brief This NCHE brief includes a summary of education legislation prior to 2012 that gives unaccompanied homeless youth access to educational supports and provides examples of practices that high schools, colleges, and universities have used to assist these students in succeeding. Please note: this guidance does not include changes made by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) to the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) which added new protections for students in temporary housing. Guides & Fact Sheets College Guide Published by the U.S. Department of Education, this new guide provides information and resources on applying to, paying for, and succeeding in college. It was written specifically for youth who are or were ever homeless, or are at risk of experiencing homelessness. Guides & Fact Sheets Applying for TAP as an Independent Student The New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) is a grant program for NYS residents who are full-time undergraduate students and are enrolled in an eligible program within the state. Annual awards range from $500 to $5,000. See Student Status section of this FAQs page. Guides & Fact Sheets Application and Verification Guide to the FAFSA United States Department of Education The U.S. Department of Education’s “Application and Verification Guide” (AVG) provides instructions and guidance for filling out the FAFSA form for financial aid. Website ACT Fee Waivers ACT Fee Waivers: The ACT webpage describes the steps that economically disadvantaged high school juniors or seniors should follow to receive a fee waiver for taking the ACT college entrance exam. Website SAT Fee Waivers SAT Fee Waivers: The College Board webpage linked below explains how a high school junior and senior can receive a fee-waiver in order to take the SAT college entrance exam or SAT subject tests. It also discusses how a college-bound student can receive waivers for college application fees. Website SchoolHouse Connection (SHC) Higher Education Resources for Students Experiencing Homelessness SchoolHouse Connection (SHC) has webpages with a variety of resources and links regarding students in temporary housing who wish to pursue post-secondary education. Website The National Center for Homeless Education (NCHE) Higher Education Resources for Students Experiencing Homelessness The National Center for Homeless Education (NCHE) has webpages with a variety of resources and links regarding students in temporary housing who wish to pursue post-secondary education. Website Financial Aid Toolkit United States Department of Education This Toolkit from the U.S. Department of Education provides federal student aid information and outreach tools for counselors, college access professionals, nonprofit mentors, and other advisors. Guides & Fact Sheets National Center for Homeless Education’s Education Goals and Supports: A Guided Discussion Tool National Center for Homeless Education’s Education Goals and Supports: A Guided Discussion Tool About the Source Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, the National Center for Homeless Education (NCHE) operates the Department’s technical assistance center for the federal Education for Homeless Children and Youth (EHCY) Program. In this role, NCHE works with schools, service providers, parents, and other interested stakeholders to ensure that children and youth experiencing homelessness can enroll and succeed in school. Forms & Templates Supporting College Access Checklist NYS-TEACHS This checklist includes strategies McKinney-Vento liaisons and school districts can use to ensure that youth experiencing homelessness have access to college access services and other supports to help ensure that they are ready for post-secondary opportunities. Forms & Templates Homeless Unaccompanied Youth Verification Form for the Purposes of Federal Financial Aid This template form from SchoolHouse Connection can be used by LEA liaisons, HUD-funded shelter staff, and RHYA shelter staff for verifying a student’s status as an unaccompanied homeless youth for the FAFSA. About the Source From SchoolHouse Connection: SchoolHouse Connection is a national organization working to overcome homelessness through education. We provide strategic advocacy and technical assistance in partnership with early childhood programs, schools, institutions of higher education, service providers, families, and youth. We believe education is the only permanent solution to homelessness. Our vision is that children and youth experiencing homelessness have full access to quality learning, birth through higher education, so they will never be homeless as adults, and the next generation will never be homeless. Laws & Guidance Dear Colleague Letter on Unaccompanied Homeless Youth Determinations United States Department of Education This July 29, 2015, Dear Colleague letter from the U.S. Department of Education provides guidance for financial aid administrators on the definition of homelessness, how to make determinations, and how to document students’ status. It revises the prior policy so that all applicants under age 24, including those who are 22 or 23 years old, are unaccompanied and experiencing homelessness, or are self-supporting and at risk of being homeless, qualify for a homeless youth determination and will be considered independent students. Laws & Guidance College Counseling and Access for Youth Experiencing Homelessness NYSED Field Memo NYSED’s McKinney-Vento Field Memo #03-2018 (April 2018) outlines the responsibilities of Local Educational Agencies (LEAs, including school districts, charter schools, and BOCES) to support students in temporary housing in pursuing college or other post-secondary opportunities. The memo identifies best practices and provides helpful resources LEAs can use to satisfy these responsibilities.

Homeless education resources on enrollment and school selection Dispute Resolution/Appeals Process If a family or student in temporary housing and their school district disagree about a student's McKinney-Vento eligibility for enrollment, school selection options, or transportation, the school district may challenge the student's eligibility under McKinney-Vento. To do so, the school district must: Provide written notice to the student or family about the reasons for their disagreement; Provide complete information in writing about the right to appeal to the family or youth; Put the family or youth in touch with the McKinney-Vento liaison for assistance; Provide immediate enrollment and transportation while the appeal is pending and until all available appeals are final. McKinney-Vento disputes and appeals are reviewed and decided by the New York State Education Department. Internal school district dispute and appeal processes cannot be used to exclude a student in temporary housing from school or discontinue the student's McKinney-Vento protections. FAQs for this topic Topic Resources Laws & Guidance LEA Requirements for Implementing McKinney-Vento Homeless Student Dispute Resolution Process NYSED Field Memo All LEAs are required to maintain processes to promptly address disputes related to a child’s eligibility under the McKinney-Vento Act, including, but not limited to, disputes regarding a student’s status as a homeless child or unaccompanied youth, school selection, and transportation. At the initiation of any dispute under this process, the LEA must immediately enroll the child in the school for which enrollment is sought, pending resolution of the dispute, including all available appeals. Featured Resource View topic by category: Guides & Fact Sheets Appeal Sample Evidence This document provides a list of examples of evidence that a parent, legal guardian, or unaccompanied youth may include in an appeal in order to show that the student is homeless under McKinney-Vento. Website Appeals to the Commissioner Involving Homeless Children and Youth New York State Education Department The New York State Education Department Office of Counsel’s website has instructions and sample forms for McKinney-Vento appeals. School districts must continue enrollment and transportation until the Commissioner gives a final decision on any McKinney-Vento related appeal. The appeal form, also called the Form Notice of Petition, can be found in English, Spanish, Arabic, Bengali, Chinese, and Haitian Creole. The form should be completed by the parent/guardian or unaccompanied youth (with help from the liaison) any time that the parent/guardian or youth wants to challenge a school district’s denial of enrollment and/or transportation under the McKinney-Vento Act. Forms & Templates Dispute 310 Appeal Form of Petition – NEW Form If a family or student in temporary housing and their school district disagree about a student's McKinney-Vento eligibility for enrollment, school selection options, or transportation, the school district may challenge the student's eligibility under McKinney-Vento through the Dispute Resolution 310 process. When a dispute arises, McKinney-Vento liaisons must help the parent or youth appeal to the Commissioner of Education using this form. Forms for Filing an Appeal to the Commissioner Involving Homeless Children and Youth | Office of Counsel (nysed.gov) - https://www.counsel.nysed.gov/appeals/homelessForms Forms & Templates Form for Affidavit of Acceptance of Personal Service by Local Educational Liaison for Homeless Children and Youth New York State Education Department This form should be completed by the LEA liaison or the person who has been designated by the board of education to accept service on behalf of the school district. This form affirms that the individual who completed the form has accepted the petition on behalf of the named respondents in the school district. Forms & Templates Form for Affidavit of Service by Mail by Local Educational Agency Liaison for Homeless Children and Youth This form should be completed by the McKinney-Vento liaison to verify that the individual has been provided with the petition and that the liaison is mailing it to the school district employee who has been designated to accept service on behalf of the school district. Forms & Templates Form for Verification of Receipt and Transmittal of Petition and Materials by Local Educational Agency Liaison New York State Education Department This form should be completed by the LEA liaison and given to the parent, guardian, or unaccompanied youth to verify that the liaison has received the petition and will mail it to the Office of Counsel of the New York State Education Department. Laws & Guidance LEA Requirements for Implementing McKinney-Vento Homeless Student Dispute Resolution Process NYSED Field Memo All LEAs are required to maintain processes to promptly address disputes related to a child’s eligibility under the McKinney-Vento Act, including, but not limited to, disputes regarding a student’s status as a homeless child or unaccompanied youth, school selection, and transportation. At the initiation of any dispute under this process, the LEA must immediately enroll the child in the school for which enrollment is sought, pending resolution of the dispute, including all available appeals. Guides & Fact Sheets List of Legal Services Providers NYS-TEACHS is a technical assistance center and cannot offer legal advice. You may contact the following agencies for legal advice and/or assistance related to the McKinney Vento dispute process. Please note, this list is not exhaustive, and there may be other providers who will also offer legal advice on these issues. Laws & Guidance McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act, Reauthorized by Title IX, Part A of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) The McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act is a federal law that protects the public education of children and youth experiencing homelessness. The text attached here is the latest version of the law since it was reauthorized on December 10, 2015 by Title IX, Part A of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). Laws & Guidance Navigating McKinney-Vento Disputes Dispute resolution can be one of the more complex LEA responsibilities, requiring the balancing of statutory requirements, SEA and LEA processes, and student needs with clarity and care. This National Center for Homeless Education (NCHE) brief complements NCHE’s foundational Dispute Resolution issue brief by offering practical guidance for liaisons and other involved LEA stakeholders overseeing an active dispute. Forms & Templates Sample District Decision Letter New York State Education Department A McKinney-Vento District Decision Letter must be sent by the district when there is a dispute regarding a student’s eligibility under the McKinney-Vento Act. This resource has been updated to reflect the changes made to the McKinney-Vento dispute resolution process under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) which went into effect on October 1, 2016. Guides & Fact Sheets Sample District Dispute Resolution Policy New York State Education Department This is a sample policy that school districts may adopt in order to follow the New York State procedure for resolving disputes regarding the McKinney-Vento Act. This resource has been updated to reflect the changes made to the McKinney-Vento dispute resolution process under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) which went into effect on October 1, 2016. Forms & Templates Template End-of-Year Letter NYS-TEACHS Districts are encouraged to check in with parents whose children are McKinney-Vento eligible (or youth themselves in the case of unaccompanied homeless youth) at the end of each school year to determine whether their housing situation has changed and make appropriate arrangements for the next school year if there has been a change. This template letter can be used to reach out to families for this purpose. Guides & Fact Sheets Tip Sheet: Navigating Challenging Conversations NYS-TEACHS This tip sheet from NYS-TEACHS guides the user through best practices for having conversations about housing status with families. We provide best practices for common scenarios. Interested in more tip sheets from NYS-TEACHS? See our Quick Tip Sheets series targeted to specific school roles.

Students in temporary housing who need summer school to advance to the next grade, or who need summer school to graduate on time, must be provided the opportunity to attend summer school free of charge. Summer School Students in temporary housing who need summer school to advance to the next grade, or who need summer school to graduate on time, must be provided the opportunity to attend summer school free of charge. School districts may be asked to cover fees associated with summer school for students in temporary housing. Students in temporary housing are entitled to transportation to and from summer school if the school district provides transportation to permanently housed students. In addition, school districts must provide transportation if the lack of transportation is a barrier to the student's ability to attend summer school, even if the district does not transport permanently housed students. During the summer months, all Local Education Agencies (LEAs, including school districts, charter schools, and BOCES) are also required to have a McKinney-Vento Liaison. They should appoint an interim summer Liaison if the academic year Liaison is unavailable during the summer months. FAQs for this topic Topic Resources View topic by category: Laws & Guidance McKinney-Vento Summer School Information - 2026 During the 2025-2026 school year, Local Education Agencies (LEAs) have provided a wide variety of supports to students experiencing homelessness, including those students made homeless by international conflict or economic instability. As LEAs begin to plan summer programming, they should continue to consider the needs of these students, who regularly face extraordinary academic and social emotional challenges. This memo outlines the required actions under the McKinney-Vento Act that LEAs must take to support students experiencing homelessness during the summer break. Additionally, it provides suggested strategies for LEAs to fulfill the requirements described. Guides & Fact Sheets Transportation Guide for Students in Temporary Housing NYS-TEACHS This chart provides concise information on the transportation rights of students in temporary housing attending school in New York State. It includes information on available services, the responsible agency, and funding sources when serving students in many different housing situations, including for students attending charter schools. Website New York State Summer Food Service Program This website provides information on the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Summer Food Service Program (SFSP). In New York, the Summer Food Service Program is administered in New York by the State Education Department (NYSED). The SFSP provides funding for free meals to students during the summer months when school is out. Children 18 years of age and younger are eligible to participate in SFSP. Persons over 18 years old who are physically or mentally disabled and participating in a public or nonprofit private school program established for children with these disabilities may also participate.

View the webinar about Trauma Informed Family Engagement Navigating the Dispute Process School districts may have situations when parents, guardians and unaccompanied homeless youth have disagreements over eligibility, school selection, enrollment or request for transportation. The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act provides a provision, the dispute resolution process, to resolve these types of disagreements. As a McKinney-Vento liaison, it is important to be prepared to assist families and follow the steps in the dispute process. Participants will be able to: Identify the LEA and McKinney-Vento Liaison’s responsibilities in the dispute process, Describe the steps of the dispute process, including the required documentation and timeline. Apply knowledge to sample dispute resolution scenarios. Assist families with helpful tips, including how to avoid a dispute. Utilize resources for navigating the process. Key Resources PDF of PowerPoint For more resources, visit the Dispute Resolution page . Back to Professional Learning

View the webinar Planning Your LEA Education for Homeless Children and Youth Program The Role of Transportation Under the McKinney-Vento Act The intent of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is to remove barriers to enrollment and attendance in school to ensure academic success. This webinar will address the key provisions of transportation for students experiencing homelessness. This webinar will focus on transportation in New York State, not New York City. By the end of the webinar, participants will be able to: Describe the transportation provisions in the McKinney-Vento Act and NYS Guidance. Identify the benefits of providing transportation to students experiencing homelessness. Utilize the transportation guide for future decision-making. Plan how to address challenges in providing transportation for McKinney-Vento eligible students. Access resources to support decision-making around transportation. Key Resources PDF of PowerPoint NYS TEACHS Transportation Guide for Students in Temporary Housing For more resources, visit the Transportation page . Back to Professional Learning

Question and Answer Documents for webinars Q&A Documents View topic by category: Back to School Back to School with McKinney-Vento Q&A This question and answer document will cover the McKinney-Vento homeless Assistance Act with a focus on identification and enrollment, and learn about the various ways you will be supported in your work this year. August 3, 2022 at 4:00:00 PM Enrollment & School Selection Enrollment and School Selection Webinar Q&A This question and answer document provides information on how to guide the decision of school selection when considering what is in the best interest of the child/youth. August 17, 2022 at 2:30:00 PM Identification and Eligibility Identification and Eligibility Q&A This question and answer document provides information on identification and eligibility. August 10, 2022 at 4:30:00 PM MV Liaisons Role & Responsibilities MV Liaison Role & Responsibilities Q&A This question and answer document provides information for MV Liaison Role & Responsibilities. September 27, 2023 at 5:30:00 PM Students with Disabilities Meeting the Needs of Students with Disabilities Living in Temporary Housing Q&A This question and answer document provides information on meeting the needs of students with disabilities living in temporary housing April 8, 2024 at 4:30:00 PM STAC-202 STAC Reimbursement for Students in Temporary Housing - 2024 Q&A Documents on The STAC Process Webinar Provided by the NYS STAC Office November 20, 2024 at 5:00:00 PM STAC-202 STAC-202 Process Q&A NYSED STAC/ Medicaid Unit - 2022 This question and answer document provides information on the STAC 202 policy. Opportunities will be provided to determine whether an LEA should apply for tuition reimbursement or direct bill another school district for the cost of educating a student in temporary housing. January 15, 2022 at 7:15:00 PM STAC-202 STAC-202 Process Q&A NYSED STAC/ Medicaid Unit - 2023 The NYSED STAC/Medicaid Unit question and answer document is designed to assist districts in processing requests for reimbursement for homeless placements. January 26, 2023 at 5:00:00 PM STAC-202 STAC-202 Process Q&A NYSED STAC/ Medicaid Unit - 2024 The NYSED STAC/Medicaid Unit question and answer document is designed to assist districts in processing requests for reimbursement for homeless placements. January 31, 2024 at 11:00:00 PM Post-Secondary Supporting Students Experiencing Homelessness and Post-Secondary Education Q&A This question and answer document will discuss barriers and provide strategies for helping youth experiencing homelessness prepare for and transition to post-secondary education, with particular emphasis on college preparation. September 21, 2022 at 2:45:00 PM Early Childhood Supporting Young Children Experiencing Homelessness Q&A This question and answer document will focus on how the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act applies to young children, specifically preschoolers who experience homelessness. September 14, 2022 at 3:15:00 PM Transportation The Role of Transportation to Support Students in Temporary Housing Q&A This question and answer document provides information on the role of transportation to support students in temporary housing. . August 24, 2022 at 12:15:00 PM

View the webinar Planning Your LEA Education for Homeless Children and Youth Program McKinney-Vento Liaison Role and Responsibilities - 2025 -26 All Local Educational Agencies (LEAs), including all school districts, charter schools, and BOCES, must designate an appropriate staff person to serve as the McKinney-Vento liaison to help students in temporary housing and their families. This session is designed especially for McKinney Vento liaisons who are new to their role in implementing the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. By the end of the webinar, participant s will: Provide information about the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. Describe the role and responsibilities of a McKinney-Vento liaison. Fulfill the responsibilities of a McKinney-Vento liaison as the primary point of contact for families. Utilize resources to support families, children, and youth experiencing temporary housing. Key Resources PDF of PowerPoint For more resources on the roles and responsibilities of Liaisons, visit the Liaison page . Back to Professional Learning

View the webinar about Meeting the Needs of Recently Arrived Children and Youth Meeting the Needs of Recently Arrived Children and Youth Immigrant students who experience homelessness are protected under the McKinney-Vento Act, regardless of their immigration status. All school-age children are entitled to a free, appropriate public education. The McKinney-Vento Act requires that students experiencing homelessness be enrolled immediately, even if lacking the necessary documentation for enrollment. This webinar will focus on ways to meet the needs of recently arrived children and youth while addressing barriers to academic success. Participants will be able to: Identify the key provisions of the McKinney-Vento Act as it relates to the rights of recently arrived children and youth. Describe the educational barriers that impact academic growth and determine strategies to ensure success. Utilize strategies to support recently arrived students experiencing temporary housing. Use resources to meet the needs of recently arrived children and youth. Key Resources PDF of PowerPoint Back to Professional Learning

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Information for educators on the McKinney-Vento Act, signs of homelessness, and ways educators can help. Educators McKinney Vento Under the McKinney-Vento Act, it is the role of the local educational agency (LEA) to designate a liaison for homeless children and youth. The "LEA" is the school district.* The LEA liaison coordinates services to ensure that homeless children and youths enroll in school and have the opportunity to succeed academically. While the LEA is responsible for ensuring compliance with the McKinney-Vento Act, it is most often school personnel who have first contact with a student experiencing homelessness. Identification of students eligible for support through McKinney-Vento is the critical first step to meeting these students' needs. Teachers, aides, counselors, nurses, and other school staff can help by learning how to identify signs of homelessness and strategies for helping homeless students be successful in school *In some states, charter schools are designated as LEAs. In those states, the charter schools must also assume the role of the LEA in fulfilling the mandates of the McKinney-Vento Act. WHY MCKINNEY-VENTO IS IMPORTANT TO EDUCATORS Teachers play a critical role in creating a classroom environment that is safe and supportive for all students. For students in temporary housing, a safe and supportive environment includes sensitivity to the stress and trauma that often accompanies homelessness. Classroom teachers provide much needed stability for homeless students and are often the first staff members to notice signs that a student’s housing status has changed. They play a critical role in connecting these students with needed resources and support. < Back Get Resources > Signs of Homelessness SIGNS OF HOMELESSNESS Be familiar with common characteristics of students in temporary housing including: Enrollment at multiple schools, gaps in learning, attendance problems Poor hygiene, lack of preparedness for class, extreme exhaustion Ongoing behavior challenges as these may be a result of chronic stress or stress related to housing instability Social cues such as extreme shyness, clinginess, difficulty with peer and/or adult relationships, “old” beyond years, uncharacteristically aggressive or withdrawn Lack of participation in class/field trips and/or afterschool activities. < Back Get Resources > Ways Educators can help WAYS EDUCATORS CAN HELP Be sensitive to the stigma of homelessness (e.g. talk to the student privately about the living situation and use the term “temporarily housed” rather than “homeless”). Make the student feel safe and welcome (e.g. deliberately connect the student with a mentoring program or other extracurricular activity; make snacks and/or hygiene supplies available; praise effort and strengths in order to build confidence; give the student opportunities to lead; emphasize partnership, not power; etc.). Ensure that the student has every opportunity to participate in school activities. Consider using Title I funds to provide school/project supplies, cover field trip fees, purchase uniforms, etc. < Back Get Resources >