• McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act: Overview & Educational Support

    On July 22, 1987, the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act became public law—marking the first comprehensive federal legislation addressing homelessness in the United States. In 2001, as part of the No Child Left Behind Act, it was reauthorized and renamed the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Improvements Act of 2001.Under this Act, the Education for Homeless Children and Youths (EHCY) Program was established to ensure that homeless children and youth have equal access to public education. The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) further amended the McKinney-Vento Act, with updates taking effect on October 1, 2016.

    Key Resources Provided by the U.S. Department of Education:

    Dispute Resolution Process

    Under the McKinney-Vento Act, states must implement procedures to resolve disputes about the school placement of homeless children and youth. These procedures ensure immediate enrollment and protect the student’s right to attend their school of origin during the dispute.

    Level 1 – Local Educational Agency (LEA) Dispute Resolution

    If a dispute arises:

    • The student must be immediately enrolled in the school of choice while the dispute is being resolved.

    • The LEA liaison must assist the family or youth with the dispute process.

    • The LEA must issue a written decision within 20 business days, including:

      • The reason for the decision

      • Information on how to appeal

    Note: LEAs should use the “Notice of Procedural Safeguards” form to:

    • Explain decisions regarding enrollment/school selection

    • Notify families of their right to stay in their school of choice during the dispute

    • Outline appeal procedures

    Forms:

    Level 2 – Regional/State Coordinator Complaint or Appeal

    If dissatisfied with the LEA’s decision:

    • Families may file a complaint with the McKinney-Vento regional or state coordinator

    • The state coordinator will assign the appeal for investigation and response within 20 business days

    • The student remains enrolled during this process

    Regional Coordinator Contact:
    Nicole Anderson
    nicole.anderson@aiu3.net
    412-394-5894

    Optional Mediation:
    The Office of General Counsel Dispute Resolution Program offers voluntary mediation at any point. Participation does not waive the right to pursue legal action.

    Note: Complaints can be submitted by any method (form, email, phone, etc.). Use of the official complaint form is encouraged but not required.