Data Collection and Requirements
Data Collections
Accurate data collection is essential for supporting homeless students in schools. Without proper data collection, it becomes difficult for educators to identify and address the specific needs of these vulnerable students. Accurate data collection can help schools track the number of homeless students they serve, their academic performance, and their attendance rates. With this information, educators can develop targeted interventions and support services to help these students succeed in school. In addition, accurate data collection can help schools access critical funding and resources that can be used to support homeless students. By prioritizing accurate data collection, schools can ensure that homeless students receive the support they need to succeed academically and thrive.
School Intake List
To help ensure that students do not miss school, the first step is to identify students who may be homeless or highly mobile and provide them with support under the McKinney-Vento program. This may involve filling out a McKinney-Vento Success in School Intake form and having the parent sign it.
After identifying the student's needs, appropriate services and resources can be provided, such as transportation agreements, transportation applications, student profiles, clothing, hygiene products, and backpacks. For free lunch, parents can fill out a food application while in the office.
Additional referrals may also be needed, and the parent will need to sign all forms. To enroll the student(s) in AERIES under the McKinney-Vento Program, documentation is required, such as meeting notes and services provided, including any items that were given to the student, such as a backpack, clothes, or shoes. A follow-up time should be set for parents to return and pick up any additional items needed.
Student Needs Assessment
Student needs assessment protocols are essential for identifying and addressing the needs of homeless students. These assessments help to identify specific needs such as clothing, hygiene products, food, and transportation. By understanding the individual needs of each homeless student, school staff can provide the necessary support and resources to ensure that they have access to the tools and resources needed to succeed academically. Moreover, these assessments also help to build trust and establish a rapport between school staff and homeless students, creating a positive school environment that supports student success. Identifying and meeting the needs of homeless students is critical to breaking the cycle of poverty and ensuring that all students have an equal opportunity to succeed academically.
Having a systemized approach to ensure that students experiencing homelessness have a comprehensive and complete review of supports that are offered is essential to ensure that these students receive the necessary assistance and resources to succeed academically. A systemized approach involves identifying homeless students, assessing their needs, providing them with the appropriate resources and support, and monitoring their progress. Students may fall through the cracks without a systemized approach, leading to a lack of support and negative academic outcomes. With a systematic approach, all students experiencing homelessness can be identified and provided with the necessary resources, leading to increased academic success and improved quality of life. A comprehensive and complete review of support ensures that every aspect of the student's life is taken into account, and the necessary support is provided to overcome barriers to academic success.