Fort Worth Independent School District
Eligibility/Student Rights
Who is eligible for services?
The McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Act was originally authorized in 1987 and most recently re-authorized in December 2015 by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). The federal legislation ensures children and youth experiencing homelessness have immediate and equal access to public education. The Act makes certain provisions available for homeless (i.e. unhoused) students, and defines homelessness as lacking "a fixed, regular, or adequate nighttime residence.” A student is considered homeless if he/she lacks any one of these three and lives…
- in a shelter
- in a motel/hotel
- in a car, park, bus station, or other public space
- in a campground or substandard house or trailer (no utilities, open to outside elements, pest infestation)
- doubled-up with another family on a temporary basis due to loss of housing
- as a youth unaccompanied by a parent or legal guardian
State Law - Texas Education Code
All Texas public schools, charter schools, and education service center (known as local education agencies, i.e. LEAs), must follow federal rules concerning the education of homeless students. Texas Education Code (TEC) address educational rights for homeless students.
What rights do unhoused students have by law?
What rights do unhoused students have by law?
Students who do not have a permanent legal residence have the right to…
- Attend their school of origin (the school they last attended before becoming homeless), OR attend the local school in the area where they are temporarily living. NOTE: McKinney-Vento students DO NOT have the option to choose their school in the District
- Enroll immediately and attend school, even if they do not have the usual documents necessary for enrollment, including proof of residence or proof of guardianship.
- An enrollment conference facilitated by the campus designee who will assist the student in settling in at the campus (if new) and provide a welcome packet.
- Receive services comparable to those received by housed schoolmates, including transportation and supplemental support services
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I notify the district that my child is unhoused?
If you and your child become unhoused (i.e., homeless) during the school year, you can notify the campus and by completing a Student Residency Questionnaire. Following submission of this information, a Liaison with the H.E.L.P. program will reach out to you to discuss what supports and services your child needs to successfully continue with their education. Please complete a separate form for child.
How do I determine which campus my child should attend?
Students can either attend their school of origin (the campus they were attending when they became unhoused) OR students can attend their school of location (based on current residence). To determine the school of location, utilize this link: School Site Locator
How do I request assistance with uniforms, school supplies, winter coat, hygiene supplies, etc.?
Utilize the following link to request items needed for the student to remain in school: Resource Referral Form
