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The Families in Transition Program is committed to addressing the barriers to education that students experiencing homelessness may face. Along with the WRPS Families in Transition Coordinator, each building has trained staff dedicated to supporting students and families experiencing homelessness. The Wisconsin Rapids Public School District is committed to helping all students and families succeed. Through the McKinney - Vento Homeless Assistance Act, our district provides certain rights and protections for families experiencing homelessness. According to McKinney-Vento, anyone who lacks a fixed, regular and adequate night-time residence is homeless. Homelessness Includes Anyone:
- Living in an emergency shelter or transitional housing.
- Abandoned in hospitals or awaiting foster care.
- Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks or camp grounds due to lack of alternative adequate accommodations.
- Living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations or similar settings.
- “Doubled up” living with friends or family due to the loss of housing, economic hardship or a similar reason.
- An “unaccompanied youth”, under the age of 18, living without a parent or guardian.
- Migratory children living in these conditions.
If Your Children Are Eligible, They Have The Right To:
- Receive a free, appropriate public education.
- Enroll in school immediately, even if lacking documents normally required for enrollment.
- Enroll in school and attend classes while the school gathers needed documents.
- Enroll in the local school; or continue attending their school of origin (the school they attended when permanently housed or the school in which they were last enrolled), if that is your preference. (If the school district believes that the school you select is not in the best interest of your children, then the district must provide you with a written explanation of its position and inform you of your right to appeal its decision.)
- Receive transportation to and from the school of origin, if you request this.
- Receive education services comparable to those provided to other students, according to your children's needs.
Unaccompanied Youth Experiencing Homelessness:
The McKinney-Vento Act defines unaccompanied homeless children and youth as individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence, and are not in the physical custody of a parent or guardian. Unaccompanied homeless youth and children include young people who have been kicked out of their homes, run away from home, and/or have been abandoned by parents or guardians. Youth who refuse to live at home are still considered to be experiencing homelessness if their living situation meets the definition under the McKinney-Vento Act.
If you or someone you know currently lacks a fixed, regular and adequate night-time residence please feel free to reach out the Wisconsin Rapids Public School Homeless Liaison, Ms. Tessa Gruszynski at homelesscontact@wrps.net or 715-315-9271.
The Families In Transition Coordinator, School Social Workers, and School Counselors in each building are aware of many resources available within our community. Please reach out if you are experiencing homelessness.
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