In a recent government meeting, officials provided an update on the allowable use of funds for homeless education programs, emphasizing the importance of supporting homeless children and youth through various services. The discussion highlighted that funds are primarily intended for educational purposes, including identification, enrollment, and retention of homeless students, as well as providing essential supplies and services.

Notably, the Department of Education (Ed) has made exceptions regarding temporary housing provisions. While short-term stays in hotels were previously limited, Ed has extended this allowance to support educational continuity for families. Under certain conditions, families can now request up to two weeks of hotel accommodation, provided they submit a preapproval request detailing costs and justifications.

Local Education Agencies (LEAs) are encouraged to implement strong internal controls when using funds, including tracking expenditures and collecting receipts. The use of prepaid cards for purchasing necessary items is permitted, but LEAs must ensure these purchases align with their data and are justified as reasonable and necessary.

The meeting also addressed the importance of building relationships with community partners to sustain support for homeless families, especially as additional staff may be funded temporarily. LEAs were reminded of the extended deadlines for obligating McKinney Vento subgrants, with funds from FY 24 available until September 30, 2026, and FY 25 until September 30, 2027.

Additionally, the meeting introduced a new provision allowing for a liquidation extension of up to 14 months for certain grantees, enabling them to draw down COVID relief funds and fulfill obligations made before the statutory deadline of September 30, 2024.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for homeless students while navigating the complexities of funding and resource allocation.