top of page

EDUCATORS

Educators play a critical role in creating a safe and supportive environment that encourages the academic success of students experiencing homelessness. School stability is key to support the educational and social-emotional well-being of students.

Why McKinney-Vento is Important to Educators

Teachers play a critical role in creating a classroom environment that is safe and supportive for all students. 

Signs of Homelessness Among Students

Get familiar with the signs most common to students experiencing homelessness.

Ways Educators
Can Help

Teachers can play a critical role in the lives of students who are homeless. While McKinney-Vento liaisons bear the local-level legal responsibility for serving students experiencing homelessness, teachers are well-positioned to observe and respond to student needs. 

Music Class
Young Teacher

Connecting with
Your Liaison

Under the McKinney-Vento Act, every local educational agency (LEA) must appoint a local homeless education liaison [42 U.S.C. § 11432(g)(1)(J)(ii)]. The local liaison serves as the district’s lead homeless education contact and is required to fulfill the duties of the position as established in the Act.  [42 U.S.C. § 11432(g)(6)(A)]

 

If you suspect a student may be homeless, identify the liaison for your district (link here) and ask for help in supporting the student and connecting them with the resources they need. Educate yourself regarding the McKinney-Vento Act and New York State guidance (Ed Law 3209 and the Commissioner’s Regs 100.2 (x)). The liaison may also be able to provide you with professional learning opportunities.

NYSTEACHS.org

749 E 135 Street

Bronx, NY 10454

41 State Street, Suite 403

Albany, NY 12207

34 South Broadway, Suite 601

White Plains, NY 10601

We provide information, referrals, and trainings to schools, school districts, social service providers, parents, and others about the educational rights of children and youth experiencing homelessness in New York State. NYS-TEACHS is funded by the New York State Education Department.
 

Tel: 800.388.2014 | Fax: 212.807.6872 | info@nysteachs.org
 

If you are unable to access files on our site, please contact the team at NYS-TEACHS and we will provide you with the information in an alternative format.

MI-Logo_h_w-white 2.png

The New York State Technical and Educational Assistance Center for Homeless Students (NYSTEACHS.org) is operated by Measurement Incorporated under a contract with the New York State Education Department.

© 2024 NYS-TEACHS. All rights reserved.

The content of this website does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the
New York State Education Department. 

bottom of page