The McKinney-Vento Act program is designed to address the problems that students in transition have faced in enrolling, attending, and succeeding in school. Under this program, State Education Agencies (SEAs) must ensure that each homeless child and youth has equal access to the same free, appropriate public education, including public preschool education, as other children and youth. Homeless children and youth should have access to the education and other services that they need to enable them to meet the same challenging New York State student academic achievement standards to which all students are held.

In addition, homeless students may not be separated from the mainstream school environment. States and districts are required to review and undertake steps to revise laws, regulations, practices, or policies that may act as a barrier to the enrollment, attendance, or success in school of homeless children and youth. 

Students who are protected under the McKinney­ Vento Act are entitled to immediate enrollment in school even if they do not have the documents normally needed, such as proof of residency, school records, immunization records, or proof of birthdate. Students who are protected under the McKinney­-Vento Act may also be entitled to free transportation and other services.

Click here for brochure on McKinney-Vento.

Lindsey Marcus

McKinney-Vento Liaison

(585) 973-3311

Email Lindsey Marcus