Information for Parents
If your family lives in any of the following situations:
- In a motel or campground due to lack of an alternative adequate accommodation;
- In a car, park, abandoned building, or bus or train stop;
- Doubled up with other people due to loss of housing or economic leadership
your school-age children may qualify for certain rights and protections under the federal McKinney-Vento Act.
Your eligible children have the right to:
- Receive a free, appropriate education.
- Enroll in school immediately, even if lacking documents normally required for enrollment.
- Enroll in school or attend classes while the school gathers needed documents.
- Enroll in the local school; or continue attending their school of origin (the school they attended when permanently housed or the school in which they were last enrolled), if that is your preference. If the school district believes the school you select is not in the best interest of your children, the district must provide you with a written explanation of its position and inform you of your right to appeal its decision.
- Receive transportation to and from the school of origin, if you request this.
- Receive educational services comparable to those provided to other students, according to your children’s needs.
If you believe your children may be eligible, contact the local liaison to find out what services and supports may be available. There also may be supports available for your preschool-age children.
Local Liaison
Angie Johns: 319-753-6791 ext. 1803
State Coordinator
Tyler Havin, State of Iowa: 515-669-8622
View the Homeless Assistance brochure
McKinney-Vento Referral Form
If you need further assistance with your children’s educational needs, contact the National Center for Homeless Education by calling 1-800-308-2145 or emailing homeless@serve.org.
