Homeless Youth and Family Support

What is the McKinney-Vento Act?

Waterville Public Schools and the Maine Department of Education follow the provisions of the federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, which aims to minimize the educational disruptions experienced by students experiencing housing instability. Students in temporary housing situations are guaranteed the right to a free, appropriate, public education. McKinney-Vento protections apply to all public school students, pre-K through grade 12 who “lack a fixed, regular and adequate night time residence”, including children and youth:

  • Sharing housing due to loss of housing or economic hardship

  • Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks or campgrounds due to lack of alternative adequate housing

  • Living in emergency or transitional housing

  • Abandoned in hospitals

  • Having a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed for, or ordinarily used as, regular sleeping accommodations

  • Living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations

  • Migratory students meeting the descriptions above

211 Maine is a free, confidential information and referral service that connects people of all ages across Maine to local services. Dial 211 if you or someone you know needs help with:

  • HOUSING

  • TRANSPORTATION

  • EMPLOYMENT & EDUCATION

  • FINANCES

  • FAMILY SUPPORT & MENTAL HEALTH

  • AND MORE!

Homeless Screening Form for Parents, Guardians, or other Community Members

Homeless Student Form - Parents.pdf

Do you know of a student who is currently or is at risk of becoming homeless? Let us know by completing this form. For assistance, please call (207) 873-4281.

Homeless Youth Reporting and Screening Form for School Staff

Homeless Student Form - Staff.docx.pdf

If you are a school staff member and suspect a student is homeless or is at risk of becoming homeless, don't hesitate! See a building administrator or school counselor immediately to fill out this form.

For More Information, Contact:

Peter Hallen, Homeless Liaison

phallen@aos92.org

207-873-4281