Answer: Under the McKinney-Vento Act, State and local educational agencies must “review and revise policies to remove barriers to the education of homeless children and youth, including barriers to enrollment and retention due to outstanding fees or fines, or absences.” 42 U.S.C.§11432(g)(1)(I). “Enrollment” is defined in the law as “attending classes and participating fully in school activities.” 42 U.S.C. §11434A(1). A school district policy that prohibits homeless student from participating in graduation due to absences related to homelessness creates a barrier to enrollment. Therefore, school policies must create exceptions for students whose absences were related homelessness. Those absences can be excused so they do not erect barriers to participation, or the policy simply can exempt students experiencing homelessness. School policies must not pose a barrier to homeless students participating fully in a school activity, such as graduation.

Read more Q&A from Our Inbox

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This