McKinney-Vento Support for Massachusetts School District Liaisons

Housing

• Many students experience homelessness by living in doubled-up situations with others due to economic hardship. In the 2022-2023 school year, 66.1% of those identified were living in doubled-up residences.²
• In urban areas homelessness can be more visible due to concentrated services and shelters. Students often reside in emergency shelters, motels, or transitional housing. Urban districts, like Boston, have specific initiatives to address the high number of homeless students.
• Rural and suburban communities face distinct challenges where homelessness is often more "hidden," with students frequently transitioning between temporary sleeping arrangements with friends or acquaintances. Schools often serve as the primary, and sometimes only, source of support in these areas.
• Coastal communities face significant housing challenges from high demand from tourism and second-home buyers inflates property values and reduces year-round rental availability, making housing unaffordable for local workers and straining the communities. This is notable on Cape Cod.

Transportation

• In urban centers like Boston, Worcester, and Springfield, challenges can include the expense of public transit (e.g., bus passes), navigating complex transportation networks, and managing long commutes to maintain school stability, particularly for students whose temporary housing is far from their school of origin.
• In rural and suburban areas, the primary obstacles are the lack of public transportation options and vast distances between temporary residences and schools. Reliance on limited school bus routes or the absence of city systems compounds barriers to consistent school attendance.

Streamlined Compliance

Enhanced Identification: Your "Army of Awareness"

Comprehensive Training

Data Management and Funding Support

Expert Guidance and Advocacy Support