New Jersey McKinney-Vento Project
About the Project
The primary goal of the New Jersey McKinney-Vento Project is to ensure that all children and youth experiencing homelessness have equal access to a free, appropriate public education, as guaranteed under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. This includes removing barriers to enrollment, attendance, and academic success. This initiative aims to connect families with vital resources and assistance to help them thrive.
Subtitle VII-B of The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act authorizes the federal Education for Homeless Children and Youth (EHCY) Program and is the primary piece of federal legislation related to the education of children and youth experiencing homelessness. It was reauthorized in December 2015 by Title IX, Part A, of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).
Key objectives typically include:
- Identification
Collaborating with schools, districts, and community organizations to identify students experiencing homelessness.
2. Access to Education
Ensuring immediate enrollment, even without required documentation, and providing transportation to maintain school stability.
3. Support Services
Connecting students and families with necessary resources such as food, clothing, counseling, and housing referrals.
4. Awareness and Training
Conducting outreach and professional development for educators, school staff, and community partners to recognize and address the needs of homeless students.
5. Advocacy
Promoting equitable policies and practices to support homeless students’ educational rights and well-being.
6. Data Collection and Reporting
Monitoring progress and challenges to enhance strategies for serving this vulnerable population.
NJ Counties We Serve: Essex, Hudson, Morris, and Union.
Regulations & Guidance
- Download the Education for Homeless Children and Youths Program: Non-Regulatory Guidance (updated August 2018)
- Download Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) State Plans (June 2018)
- Download the U.S Department of Education Fact Sheet: Supporting the Success of Homeless Children and Youths (July 27, 2016)
- Download the U.S. Department of Education Dear Colleague Letter: Educational Rights of Homeless Children and Youths (Secretary John King; July 27, 2016)
- Download the U.S. Department of Education Guidelines: McKinney-Vento Education for Homeless Children and Youths Program (Federal Register, March 17, 2016)
Resources
ERESC Links:
- ERESC main homepage
- ERESC MEP webpage
- ERESC Tutor referral form
- ERES MKV webpage
- ERESC Parent Resources webpage
Looking for specific resources for yourself or your family? Click HERE and enter your zip code to find what you need.
Kasey Dudley
The McKinney-Vento Project is a partnership between SPAN Parent Advocacy Network and the Essex Regional Services Commission, funded by the Essex Regional Services Commission.
Together, we can provide the support and resources they need for educational stability and success!