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Infographic from the National Center for Homeless Education (NCHE) titled "Supporting the Education of Unaccompanied Youth Experiencing Homelessness." The graphic describes barriers faced by unaccompanied youth experiencing homelessness and outlines strategies and supports under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. It also summarizes the law's definition of homeless children and youth, including those living in shared housing, motels, shelters, cars, and other unstable situations.

Supporting the Education of Unaccompanied Students Experiencing Homelessness

This brief provides an overview of the educational needs, rights, and supports for unaccompanied youth experiencing homelessness under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. The brief explains common pathways that lead youth to become unaccompanied, outlines the legal protections that ensure unaccompanied youths access to public education, and describes the role of schools and local liaisons in identifying and supporting this student population. It also offers practical strategies and considerations for educators and service providers to improve identification, school stability, and educational success for unaccompanied youth.

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Date Published: May 2025

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