School rights of children experiencing homelessness
Are you experiencing homelessness? Your child has the right to stay in the same school.
It is important for children experiencing homelessness to have their education disrupted as little as possible. Schools are responsible for making sure these children’s rights are protected. If you work at a school, see this checklist for school officials.
If you are. . .
- staying in a shelter or motel,
- doubling up with friends or family,
- staying someplace people are not meant to live, or
- having trouble finding a place to stay,
you have the right to choose your child’s school.
This can mean:
- Your child can keep going to the same school, or
- You can choose a new school for your child where you live now.
Education of Homeless Children and Youth Program
State Coordinator Shirley Fan-Chan
(781) 338-6310
Call your school and ask for your local Homeless Education Liaison. Or, search online. Under the “Function” dropdown list, choose “Homeless Liaison.”
The Massachusetts Appleseed Center for Law and Justice
(617) 482-8686
The Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless
(781) 595-7570
Children's Law Center of Massachusetts
(781) 581-1977
Massachusetts Advocates for Children
Helpline: (617) 357-8431 ext. 3224
Multilingual Voicemail: Español, Português, Kreyòl ayisyen, Tiếng Việt, 中文