At Big Rapids Public Schools (BRPS), we are committed to supporting students and families who are experiencing homelessness. Every child deserves access to a stable, high-quality education — regardless of their living situation.

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is a federal law that ensures educational rights and protections for children and youth experiencing homelessness. This law helps remove barriers to enrollment, attendance, and academic success, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to learn and thrive.

• MV Act defines homeless as the student lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence due to loss of housing or similar reason

• Students experiencing homelessness should be immediately enrolled even if they lack required documents (birth certificate, proof of residence, immunization records, etc.)

• Students may either continue in their school of origin (includes feeder pattern schools) or enroll in the district where they are living or a PSA / charter

• Transportation to school of origin is required if the student would face a barrier to attendance without it

• Provide uniforms / school clothes, school supplies, and hygiene items to students who need them
   

Under the McKinney-Vento Act, every local educational agency is required to designate a liaison for homeless children and youth. The local educational agency liaison coordinates services to ensure that homeless children and youths enroll in school and have the opportunity to succeed academically.

Big Rapids Public Schools 
McKinney-Vento Coordinator
Katie Thomas
Email: kthomas@brps.org
Phone: (231) 796-9965 

Additional resources for students and families: