Supporting Students Experiencing Homelessness with American Rescue Plan Funds
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this video belong solely to the speakers, and do not necessarily reflect the perspective of the Learning Policy Institute.
In the wake of the pandemic—and in the midst of the current housing, addiction, and student mental health crises—schools and communities face unprecedented challenges. While often hidden, homelessness among children and youth is a significant factor contributing to declines in school enrollment, increases in chronic absence, and deepening student mental health struggles.
The American Rescue Plan–Homeless Children and Youth (ARP–HCY) provides one-time funds that can help meet this moment. ARP–HCY funds are uniquely flexible funds to support the identification, enrollment, and school participation of children and youth experiencing homelessness, including through wrap-around services. Funds must be committed for specific use by September 30, 2024 and spent by January 31, 2025.
In this webinar, SchoolHouse Connection and the Learning Policy Institute shared key findings from a study that examines federal and state education funding for students experiencing homelessness. Experts discussed how school district liaisons and administrators are using these one-time funds to improve outcomes for students experiencing homelessness, including by addressing chronic absenteeism, mental health, and other urgent needs.
Speakers:
- Quentina Brown, Homeless Coordinator, Lafourche Parish School Board
- Barbara Duffield, Executive Director, SchoolHouse Connection
- Daniel Espinoza, Researcher and Policy Advisor, Learning Policy Institute
- Erin Patterson, Director of Education Initiatives, SchoolHouse Connection
- Jessica Tremble, Supervisor of Counseling & Student Services K-8, Clifton Public Schools (NJ)