Tiverton School Committee reviews McKinney-Vento policy to align with federal law

The Tiverton School Committee held a first reading of an updated McKinney‑Vento homeless policy that the district says will align local rules with the Every Student Succeeds Act and federal McKinney‑Vento protections.

The policy “ensures that children and youth experiencing homelessness or who are in transition have full and equal access to a free appropriate public education,” the presenter said, adding the update removes barriers to enrollment and attendance and emphasizes equity and dignity for affected students.

Key provisions the presenter highlighted include immediate enrollment even without typical documentation such as proof of residency or immunization records; a right to remain in a student’s school of origin through the end of the academic year; transportation upon request; and access to the same programs and services as peers, including Title I, free meals, special education and preschool programs. The presenter also said the district has a designated local liaison to identify students, facilitate services, resolve disputes and train staff.

Committee members asked procedural questions. One member asked whether the liaison receives a stipend; the presenter replied, “No.” Another member asked whether staff follow up to obtain missing records; the presenter said the district “work[s] with the other school districts where the student was previously to obtain those or with, you know, the foster parent and DCYF,” and reiterated that lack of documentation cannot delay enrollment.

A committee member asked whether the policy covers undocumented children; the presenter answered “Yes,” noting the district could be the school of record for any child who falls under McKinney‑Vento definitions.

The committee did not vote on the policy at the meeting; the presenter said the item was a read and would return for a future vote after questions were addressed.