During the 2014-2015 school year, more than 1.26 million homeless students were enrolled in public school, double the amount of students identified as homeless in 2006-2007. Research indicates that homeless students experience greater school mobility, are at higher risk of chronic absenteeism, and are more likely to be held back or drop out compared to their peers. Given the increase in student homelessness over the past decade, it is critical that states and districts provide the necessary educational supports and stability for these youth to complete high school prepared for success in postsecondary education and the workforce.
The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) requires that all students have access to a well-rounded education that will prepare them for college and career and aims to highlight achievement gaps among vulnerable student groups, including youth experiencing homelessness. ESSA amended the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, federal legislation that has supported homeless youth for the past thirty years. This webinar will discuss ESSA’s new requirements pertaining to students experiencing homelessness, highlight promising state and district examples supporting college and career readiness for these youth, share a young person’s experience with school and related supports, and explore policy and practice recommendations.
Presenters include:
- Patricia Julianelle, Director of Program Advancement and Legal Affairs, SchoolHouse Connection
- Dr. Pat Popp, State Coordinator, Project HOPE, The College of William and Mary, Virginia Department of Education
- Jonathan Houston, McKinney-Vento Coordinator, Tukwila, Washington
- Hannah Johnson, SchoolHouse Connection Young Adult Leader
