Homeless Education
Homeless children have the right to a free, appropriate public education (McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Improvements Act of 2001)
The Homeless Children's Initiative exists to help homeless children with a variety of services. A detailed description of the definition of homelessness and the rights of children and youth experiencing homelessness can be found here. In addition, the McKinney-Vento Act defines an unaccompanied youth as “a homeless child or youth not in the physical custody of a parent or guardian” (42 U.S.C. § 11434a(6)). This definition can be used to describe youth who are residing with a caregiver who is not a parent or guardian as well as youth who are living without the care of an adult. More information about the rights of unaccompanied youth can be found here.
If you are homeless with school or preschool aged children or are an unaccompanied youth, please contact one of the persons or agencies listed below for assistance:
HHSD Homeless Liaison: Email Kimberly Myers
HHSD Coordinator of Special Services: Email Dawn Tucker
A brochure that provides additional information is located here. Brochures are also available in district buildings in print form.
Region #8 McKinney Vento Homeless Act Site (serving Bucks, Delaware, Lehigh, Montgomery, and Northampton counties)
Regional Site Coordinator: Email Michelle Connor 1-215-348-2940 ext 1361
Storm Camara, State Coordinator
Education for Homeless Children and Youth Program
Division of Student Services, Bureau of Curriculum, Assessment and Instruction
Pennsylvania Department of Education
333 Market Street, 5th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17126-0333
(717) 783-6468
In addition, the Department of Education issues a Basic Education Circular (BEC) that further explains the categories of children who are homeless and entitled to protections under federal law. The most recent BEC was issued on 2/3/2010 and reviewed in 2016.
Students who are identified under the McKinney Vento Act are eligible for Title I Services. More information regarding eligibility Title I services can be found here.
Hatboro-Horsham is proud of our linkages and partnerships within the community. Below are a few of those notable partnerships: