Homelessness can be a significant barrier to educational success for students across the country. Students experiencing homelessness have poorer academic outcomes, increased rates of absenteeism, and are less likely to graduate from high school. School districts are uniquely positioned to help prevent and address issues related to child and family homelessness while housing providers can play a critical role in promoting positive outcomes for children and families by providing stable housing opportunities and other services.
The Affordable Housing for Educational Achievement Demonstration Act (AHEAD Act, S. 3011) would provide funding to help school districts, housing authorities, and community partners to collaborate in unprecedented ways to address children’s education and housing needs in a coordinated fashion. Under this new program, school districts would apply in partnership with local housing authorities and other community-based organizations for a federal grant.
On December 10, 2019, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) re-introduced the Affordable Housing for Educational Achievement Demonstration Act of 2019 (the AHEAD Act, S. 3011). The bill was referred to the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee for consideration.