How should “best interest” decisions for a homeless child or youths enrollment be made?
McKinney-Vento law states that homeless children and youth are eligible to continue attending their schools of origin, as long as it is in their best interest. In making “best interest” decisions, most importantly, parents/guardians and/or the child (especially in cases of runaway or unattached youth) should be involved in the decision. USDE Guidance states that a school district must allow a child to remain in the school of origin, to the extent feasible, unless doing so is directly contrary to the child’s or parent/guardian’s wishes. If a school district decides that it is in the best interest of the child to attend school in a place other than the school of origin, the district must provide a written explanation of its decision to the parent or guardian, together with a statement advising them of their right to appeal the decision. In general, it is usually considered better for the child to remain in the school of origin, as this encourages stability for the student. In some cases,
