In compliance with the McKinney-Vento Act, San Ysidro School District has designated a representative to ensure children experiencing non-permanent housing receive educational services. Parents may obtain unique educational resources through the District’s Families First program.

Families living in any of the following situations have rights or protections under the Federal McKinney-Vento Act and California State Law:

• In a shelter (family, domestic violence, youth shelter, or transitional living programs).
• In a motel, hotel, or weekly rate housing.
• In a house or an apartment with more than one family.
• In an abandoned building, car, campground, or on the street.
• In temporary foster care or with an adult who is not the parent or guardian.
• In substandard housing without electricity, water, or heat.
• With friends or family because you are a runaway or an unaccompanied youth.

Families First was developed to help meet the needs of children who are experiencing non-permanent housing by encouraging schools to enhance services for families and promote awareness of their educational rights. Our schools are doing the following to help remove barriers to success:

 • Encourage the student to participate fully in all school activities and programs for which they are eligible.
• Encourage the student to attend the school in which they were last enrolled; even if they have moved away from the school’s attendance zone or district.
• Provide transportation from the student’s current residence to the school of origin.
• Qualify students automatically for child nutrition programs.
• Resolve any disputes that arise during the enrollment process.
• Coordinate between schools, shelters, housing agencies, and motels on behalf of families.
• Provide greater access to family literacy activities and after-school programs.
• Facilitate the transfer of school records as needed.
• Improve access to immunization and health care services.
• Access to special programs, such as preschool and special education.
• Referrals to community resources that assist with food, shelter, and clothing.
• Access to school supplies and uniforms.
• Parent consultation, including discussion of educational rights and responsibilities.
• Referrals to community resources that assist with food, shelter, and clothing.