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Cover page of an NCHE brief on school selection and best interest determination under the McKinney-Vento Act, featuring an introduction and the Act's definition of "homeless."

Understanding and Implementing School Selection and Best Interest Under the McKinney-Vento Act

This brief explains the key provisions of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act related to school selection and best interest determinations for children and youth experiencing homelessness and recommends local education agency and school-level strategies for implementation. This brief also includes a checklist of considerations for framing conversations with parents, guardians, and unaccompanied youth about best interest.

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Date Published: May 2026

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