McKinney-Vento Services
Homeless Youth Services – STAY Program
Lynwood Unified is committed to ensuring all students — including those experiencing housing instability — have access to a safe, supportive, and uninterrupted education. Our STAY Program (School & Transition Assistance for Youth) provides resources and support to students and families who qualify under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.
This federal law guarantees the educational rights of homeless children and youth, including preschoolers, and works to remove barriers that may prevent them from enrolling in or succeeding at school.
Educational Rights for Homeless Students
Students experiencing homelessness have the right to:
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Attend school, regardless of where they currently live or how long they have lived there.
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Enroll and begin school immediately — even without records such as proof of residency, immunizations, or previous school records.
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Remain in their school of origin (the school they last attended when permanently housed) or enroll in the neighborhood school closest to their current residence, depending on what is in the student's best interest.
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Receive transportation to and from their school of origin, whenever feasible.
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Fully participate in school activities, programs, and services — including sports, extracurriculars, and school meals — without barriers or discrimination.
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Be treated with dignity and respect, with the same support and opportunities as their peers.
Federal law prohibits separating students based on their housing situation, as doing so negatively impacts their educational experience.
Who Qualifies as Homeless?
Under the McKinney-Vento Act, a child or youth is considered homeless if they lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. This includes students who are:
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Living temporarily with others ("doubled up") due to loss of housing, eviction, or financial hardship
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Staying in shelters, transitional housing, motels, or hotels
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Living in cars, parks, abandoned buildings, or public places not intended for housing
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Unaccompanied youth who are not in the physical custody of a parent or legal guardian
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Children abandoned in hospitals or those in similar transitional situations
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Migrant youth who meet any of the above conditions
Our STAY Program team is here to help students access the education they deserve—regardless of their housing situation. If you believe your child may qualify for services under McKinney-Vento, or if you have questions, please contact our Student Services Department for assistance.
You are not alone. We’re here to support your journey.