The Mississippi Department of Education is dedicated to ensuring each child who is homeless has equal access to the same free, appropriate public education available to other students. This commitment includes services to preschool students and unaccompanied youth who are homeless.
In 2022-2023 Mississippi school districts identified 6,397 students who met the McKinney-Vento Act definition of homeless students.
Grants for the Education for Homeless Children and Youth Program are awarded to local educational agencies on a competitive, yearly basis. The funding source of these awards is Title IX, Part A of the Every Student Succeeds Act. School districts may also reserve a portion of their Title I Part A funds to meet the needs of homeless students.
These grants provide activities that enable these students to enroll, attend, and succeed in school. These services might include before or after-school tutoring, supplemental instruction, and enriched educational activities. Activities may be provided on school grounds or at other facilities that can effectively meet the needs of students who are homeless.
All school districts are required to maintain compliance with the McKinney-Vento Act which provides specific rights for homeless students. Every school district must designate a McKinney-Vento Liaison to assist in identifying , supporting, and ensuring the rights of homeless students and families. These rights include waiving certain requirements, such as proof of residency, when students are enrolling and allowing categorical eligibility for certain services, such as free lunch. The Act also states:
Announcements
FY23 McKinney-Vento Homeless
Legislation
Liaison Information
Family Information
Title IX, Part A
FAQs
