Answer: Under the McKinney-Vento Act, the student has the right to enroll in any school that other students living where she is living would be eligible to attend. 42 USC §§11432(g)(3)(A). If other 18-year olds can enroll in the local high school, this youth also must be given that opportunity. She also should be provided with appropriate English learner services and other supports. It may be the case that eventually, she transitions into an adult program or GED course. However, she has the right to enroll in high school and try to get her diploma, with appropriate English Learner and other supports in place.
An 18-year old residing with relatives would like to enroll in high school. She is eligible for McKinney-Vento Act services. The student speaks little English, and they have not been able to locate school records. The school feels that she would be better served by the adult program for her GED, because they feel she has no chance to graduate by the age of 20. What should we do?
Dec 14, 2021 | Q and A