New York State Education Law Section 3209, Education of Homeless Children

NYS Education Law Section 3209 describes the rights of students in temporary housing in New York State.

Important changes to New York Education Law Section 3209 went into effect on April 20, 2017. The changes to this law reflect changes to the federal McKinney-Vento Act that were made under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). Below, along with the link to download the new text of the law, you will find a link to a marked-up version of Education Law § 3209 that highlights the changes.

NY Education Law § 3209 (PDF)

Marked-Up (Redline) Version (PDF)

Highlighted Resources

HIGHLIGHTED RESOURCES

LAWS & GUIDANCE

NYSED Memo: Provision of Educational Services for Recently Arrived Unaccompanied Children and Youth

NYSED Field Memo

This 2021 NYSED Field Memo provides information and resources about the rights of recently arrived unaccompanied children and youth.

FORMS & TEMPLATES

HIGHLIGHTED RESOURCES

Referral Templates for McKinney-Vento Liaisons

NYS-TEACHS

McKinney-Vento Liaisons are required to refer students and families to key services and supports. Our template referral lists are intended to help you streamline your referral process and/or provide information that may be needed in a sensitive manner.

GUIDES & FACT SHEETS

HIGHLIGHTED RESOURCES

Early Care and Education Services for Children Experiencing Homelessness

This guide by the NYS Early Childhood Advisory Council (ECAC) provides information on determining eligibility for children in temporary housing, and their rights and protections. You can also find a handy chart where community-specific information about early care and education programs can be included and then shared with parents.