Supporting Students Experiencing Homelessness

North Stonington Public Schools is committed to ensuring that children and youth experiencing homelessness have equal access to a free, appropriate public education. We work closely with families to remove barriers to enrollment, attendance, and academic success while providing support with dignity, respect, and confidentiality.

If your family's living situation has changed, we encourage you to contact us. We are here to help.

       Who Is Eligible?

Under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, a child or youth may qualify if they lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.

This may include families or students who are:

 

• Living with relatives or friends due to the loss of housing or economic hardship

• Living in a shelter or transitional housing

• Living in a motel or hotel because they have nowhere else to stay

• Living in a car, campground, or another temporary location

• Living in housing that is not safe or adequate

• Unaccompanied youth who are not living with a parent or legal guardian

​

If you are unsure whether your family qualifies, please contact us. We are happy to discuss your situation confidentially.

       Available Supports

Eligible students may receive support such as:

 

• Immediate school enrollment, even if required documents are unavailable

• School stability, allowing students to remain in their school of origin when appropriate

• Transportation assistance, when eligible

• Access to school meals and educational programs

• Assistance connecting with school and community resources

• Support removing barriers to school attendance and participation

​

Each family's situation is unique, and supports are determined based on individual circumstances and federal guidelines.

       Our Commitment

Our goal is to ensure that every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed, regardless of their housing situation. We are committed to working collaboratively with families to provide support and connect them with available resources.

All conversations are handled with care and confidentiality.

       McKinney-Vento Contact

April Christiansen
Director of Special Services
District McKinney-Vento Liaison
Email: christiansena@nostoschools.org

If you believe your child may qualify under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, or if you have questions about eligibility or available supports, please contact April. We are here to help.

Key Links:

• Connecticut McKinney-Vento Resources

• Connecticut 2-1-1

• Local food and housing resources

• National Center for Homeless Education

​

Students may qualify for support if they are temporarily living with another family, staying in a shelter or motel, living in transitional housing, or experiencing another unstable housing situation. Families are encouraged to contact the district liaison for confidential assistance.