The Nevada Department of Education is dedicated to helping students experiencing homelessness and foster caredo well in school and beyond. Our mission is to provide the resources, support, and advocacy they need and to ensure equity, inclusion, and opportunity for all.

About

The Nevada Department of Education is dedicated to helping students experiencing homelessness and foster care do well in school and beyond. Our mission is to provide the resources, support, and advocacy they need and to ensure equity, inclusion, and opportunity for all.

McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act

The McKinney-Vento Law helps us remove barriers to education and provide services for stability, inclusion, and success. It ensures that children and youth who are experiencing homelessness or in foster care have access to free public education by addressing issues like enrollment, attendance, and consistent engagement in school. We partner with local schools and community organizations to

  • ensure students without permanent housing can enroll in school right away;
  • provide stability by reducing disruptions caused by homelessness or foster care transitions;
  • help students access academic programs, extracurricular activities, and necessary support services; and
  • support graduation and prepare students for life after high school.

Nevada’s Program for Foster Care

This program helps provide educational stability for students in foster care. The main goal is to help these students remain in their original school when possible, and if they do need to switch schools, to get them enrolled immediately without delays. To make this work, the State Foster Care Liaison coordinates with local education agencies and child welfare agencies to make sure transportation is arranged and paid for so students can get to school.

The State Foster Care Liaison also works closely with District Liaisons to share ideas, solve problems, and identify what’s working well—and participates in community working groups to keep improving the program over time.

If you would like more information or have a question, contact us.

Website Partners

Nevada Department of Education
WestEd