The Office of Homeless Education facilitates the enrollment, attendance, and success of children and youth in transitional housing in the Sioux Falls School District. The term "homeless children and youth" is defined by law as individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence, including those who are sharing the housing of other persons; are living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or campgrounds; are living in emergency or transitional shelters; are abandoned in hospitals; are awaiting placement in foster care; are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus/train stations or similar settings; and migratory children living in the above circumstances. Referrals are made for assistance with various needs the student may have.

When to call the McKinney-Vento Advocate? Student is kicked out of their house-might have a place to stay tonight but doesn't have a long term plan Family is in crisis- They appear to need basics: hygiene, clothing, food, and other necessitates Domestic violence situations- parent may have fled, worried about getting their students to school Student mentions doesn't know where they are staying tonight Student doesn't have enough food at home Student is missing a lot of school because of multiple address changes Student mentions they are living with friends or relatives What can McKinney-Vento staff help with? Provide basis needs: food (free school breakfast and lunch), clothing, shoes hygiene items McKinney-Vento transfer to stay at their school of origin (No need to change schools because of housing issues) Transportation options if living outside the attendance area Community referrals Eliminate barriers to education