Homeless and Foster Services

Even if you have uncertain housing, a temporary address, or no permanent physical address, we guarantee your child's enrollment in school as mandated by the federal McKinney-Vento Act and California state law.

AR 6173 - Education for Homeless Children              BP 6173 - Education for Homeless Children

Who is considered homeless?

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act defines homeless children and youth as those who:

• Lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.
• Sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason.
• Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or campgrounds.
• Living in emergency or transitional shelters.
• Living in cars, parks, public spaces, or other unsheltered spaces.
• Unaccompanied Youth
• Awaiting foster care placement.

Homeless children and youth have the right to:

• Go to school, no matter where they live, or how long they have lived there.
• Continue in the school last attended if that is their choice and is feasible.
• Enroll in school immediately, even without required records.
• Participate in all school programs for which they are eligible.
• Receive transportation to and from school, if they request such transportation.

As a parent, it is your responsibility to:

• Enroll your child in school.
• Make sure your child attends school regularly.
• Request transportation if needed.
• Attend parent/teacher conferences, and other school activities.
• Stay informed of school rules, regulations, and activities.
• Notify the school if moving.

Tulare City School District is compassionate to the needs of students that are in foster care. We work closely with Child Welfare Services to ensure a foster child receives all the support they need to be successful in school.

• AB 490