The McKinney-Vento Homeless Act assists unaccompanied youth and homeless students and their families. This act is designed to support students' educational needs to ensure academic success.

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Act defines “homeless children and youths” as “individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.” However, because the circumstances of homelessness vary with each family or unaccompanied youth, determining the extent to which the family or youth fits the definition occurs at each District 200 school on a case-by-case basis.

The education provisions of the McKinney-Vento Act ensure Homeless Educational Rights and Protections for children and youth experiencing homelessness.  These rights include the ability to continue to attend the last school you were enrolled in, transportation to the school of origin, enrollment in the Free-Reduced-Price Lunch program, and contact with the district liaison to resolve enrollment disputes.  If you believe you or your student(s) meet the eligibility requirements, please contact the main office at your student’s school to schedule a time to complete the McKinney-Vento application. All McKinney-Vento homeless status applications must be completed in person at school with the D200 McKinney-Vento Building Representative.

District 200 McKinney-Vento Liaison 
Dr. Justin Smith 
815-337-2153
jusmith@wcusd200.org

Any dispute regarding homeless status is governed by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE).  Please click here to read or download the ISBE document, Homeless Dispute Resolution Procedures.