The Legal Rights and Educational Problems of Homeless Children and Youth

Yvonne Rafferty
Pace University

This article summarizes the educational rights of homeless children and youth afforded by the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act. It also describes the educational problems they confront, including academic underachievement and poor school attendance. Factors that exacerbate these outcomes of homelessness are delineated: barriers to accessing schooling and appropriate services; multiple movements between schools; insensitivity of school personnel; barriers to parental involvement; and difficulties in obtaining school clothes and supplies. The extent to which existing laws adequately address identified needs, problems, and barriers is discussed. Gaps in policies and practices are identified and recommendations for social policy changes presented.