McKinney-Vento Act at Leman Academy
The McKinney‑Vento Act ensures that students experiencing homelessness have equal access to the same free, appropriate public education as all other children. Our district is committed to removing barriers, supporting school stability, and ensuring every scholar has the resources they need to succeed.
District Homeless Liaison
Alison Johnson
McKinney Vento
Phone: (520) 499-1474
Email: alison.johnson@lemanacademy.org
The Homeless Liaison ensures that students and families experiencing homelessness receive the services and support they are entitled to under federal law.
Who Qualifies as Homeless
Under the McKinney‑Vento Act, a child or youth is considered homeless if they lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. This includes:
- Sharing housing due to loss of housing or economic hardship (“doubled‑up”)
- Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or campgrounds
- Staying in emergency or transitional shelters
- Living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, or substandard housing
- Migratory children living in the above circumstances
If you believe your family may qualify, please contact our Homeless Liaison.
Rights of Students and Families
Students experiencing homelessness have the right to:
- Immediate enrollment, even without documents such as birth certificates, immunization records, or proof of residency
- Continue attending their school of origin (the school they last attended or the school they attended when they became homeless)
- Receive transportation to and from the school of origin
- Access free school meals
- Participate fully in all school programs, including extracurricular activities
- Receive Title I services and academic support
- Have barriers to enrollment and participation removed
These rights apply to all students experiencing homelessness, regardless of immigration status.
How to Request Support
Families can request McKinney‑Vento support by:
Speaking with a school administrator, counselor, or front office staff
Completing the McKinney‑Vento Form
Requesting assistance during enrollment
Once identified, the liaison will work with the family to determine services and supports.
General Information
Enrollment Assistance
Students experiencing homelessness can enroll immediately, even if they do not have:
- Birth certificates
- Immunization records
- School records
- Proof of residency
- Guardianship documents
The Homeless Liaison will help families obtain missing documents and coordinate with previous schools.
Dispute Resolution Process
If a parent, guardian, or youth disagrees with a school placement or eligibility decision:
- The student must be immediately enrolled in the school the parent/guardian chooses while the dispute is being resolved
- The district will provide a written explanation of the decision
- The family has the right to appeal
- The Homeless Liaison will assist the family throughout the process
Public Notice of Rights
Schools are required to publicly post information about the educational rights of children and youth experiencing homelessness.
You may view the public notice here:
Transportation Support
Eligible students may receive transportation to:
- Their school of origin
- Their current school of residence
Transportation arrangements are coordinated by the Homeless Liaison and may include district buses, public transportation, or other approved methods.
Please contact McKinney Vento Liaison
State Resources
Families and staff can learn more from the following resources:
State Homeless Education Website:
Other Resources:
