The McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act defines a homeless individual as one who lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. If a family lives in any of the following situations, then pre-school-aged and school-aged children and youth in that family have certain rights and protections under this act.

• In a shelter, motel, vehicle, or campground
• On the street
• In an abandoned building, trailer, or other inadequate accommodations, or
• Doubled up with friends or relatives because you cannot find or afford housing.

If a parent or guardian of a preschool-or school-aged child or children believes any of the above applies to his or her family, he or she should contact the district’s liaison for homeless education: Lanie Kent (205) 871-4608.