- Section J: Students
JLG - Education of Homeless Children and Youth
RSU 21 recognizes its statutory obligation to provide a free public education to homeless children and youth. Homeless students, including unaccompanied homeless students, will not be segregated or stigmatized on the basis of their homelessness. Such education shall be provided according to the best interests of the homeless student, considering factors including, but not limited to, the impact of mobility on achievement, educational needs, health, and safety.
RSU 21 shall perform all applicable duties required by federal and state laws and regulations regarding services provided to homeless children. The Superintendent will designate a Homeless Education Liaison who will ensure that homeless students are enrolled in school; have an equal opportunity to succeed in all educational opportunities, and that homeless students and their families receive referrals to appropriate services. The Liaison will be responsible for compliance with RSU 21’s obligations under applicable laws and regulations in consultation with the Superintendent and other appropriate school staff.
The Superintendent is authorized to develop and implement any administrative procedures necessary to carry out this policy, consistent with applicable statutes and regulations.
Legal References:
42 U.S.C. § 11431 et seq. (The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act)
20 U.S.C. § 1232g et seq.; 34 C.F.R. Part 99 (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)
20-A M.R.S.A. §§ 261 and 5205
20-A M.R.S.A. § 6001
Me. Dept. of Ed. Rule Ch. 14 (Education of Homeless Students)
Cross References:
JLG-R - Homeless Children and Youth – Administrative Procedure
JRA – Student Records and Information
Adopted: 03/04/2019
- Section J