What are signs a child may be experiencing homelessness?
Wears same clothes for several days
Does not attend school on days when students bring special treats
Unable to complete special projects
Does not participate in field trips
The McKinney-Vento Act
Homelessness exists in every area of St. Tammany Parish. A combination of high housing costs, job loss, lack of existing housing, effects of hurricanes, and poverty has caused many in our community to lose their homes. In addition, some young people experiencing abouse, neglect, and/or family conflict have chosen to leave home.
Because "homelessness" is often perceived as a derogatory term, St. Tammany Parish Schools will adopt the term KIT, Kids in Transition. Under federal law. KITs must have access to appropriate public education, including preschool and must be given full opportunity to meet state and local academic achievement standards. They must be included in state and district assessments and accountability systems. St. Tammany Schools will ensure that KITs are free from discrimination, segregation and harasment.
Information regarding these guidelines and procedures are posted in the main office and guidance department at Salmen High School. Brochures concerning the McKinney-Vento Act and how it relates to St. Tammany Parish students are distributed in both English and Spanish.
If you or someone you know qualifies for KIT please come to see me in Room AO2-A so that a questionnaire can be filled out to determine a status. KIT does go through a verification process.
* FACTS
500,000 of America's homeless children are under the age of 5
Families with children are the fastest growing segment of the homeless population
Louisiana has the highest number of homeless children per capita
60% of Americans are one paycheck away from being homeless
97% of America's homeless children move up to three times every year
21 % of homeless children repeat a grade because of attendance issues
Homeless children have 5 times more stomach problems than other children
