Boise School District

The McKinney-Vento Act is a law that helps students stay in school even if their family is going through a hard time with housing. It is there to make sure every child can learn, grow, and have fun at school, no matter where they are sleeping at night.

This law helps kids and teens who do not have a permanent home. This includes families who are:

• Staying with friends or relatives because they lost their home or cannot afford one.

• Living in a motel, hotel, or campground because they have nowhere else to go.

• Staying in a shelter (like a family shelter or a domestic violence shelter).

• Living in a car, park, or public place.

If your housing is not stable, this law gives your child special rights at school:

• Fast Enrollment: Your child can start school right away, even if you don't have all the paperwork like birth certificates, proof of where you live, or shot records.

• Staying at the Same School: Your child can stay at the school they were already going to, even if you move to a different town. This is called the "School of Origin."

• Free Transportation: If you stay at your old school but live far away, the school district can help get your child a ride to school for free.

• Free Meals: Your child will get free breakfast and lunch at school automatically.

• Help with School Supplies: The school can help provide things like backpacks, paper, and pens so your child is ready to learn.

If your family is struggling with stable housing, please reach out to your school counselor or social worker.