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There are few things more disturbing to an educator than learning that a student is homeless. Homelessness is a reality that too many young people need to deal with, and teachers aren't always prepared to properly handle the situation.
After receiving reports that up to 50% of homeless children were not attending school, Congress established the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. The McKinney-Vento Act was created with the goal of ensuring the enrollment, attendance, and success of homeless children and youth in school. It provides states with funding to help remove barriers to education.
Children and youth experiencing homelessness find shelter in a variety of places. To help educators identify homeless children, the Act defines who is considered homeless. According to the U.S. Department of Education, people living in the following situations are considered homeless:
* Doubled up with family or friends due to economic conditions
* Living in motels and hotels for lack of other suitable housing
* Runaway and "Throwaway" children and youth
* Homes for unwed or expectant mothers for lack of a...