Know Your Rights (PDF)
If I am homeless, where will my child go to school?
As a homeless parent, you have the right to decide, along with your child’s school, whether it is in the best interest of your child to:
- Stay in the same school he or she attended before you became homeless (this is the “school of origin”); or
- Transfer to the school that is closest to your new location.
To the extent that is feasible, the Local School System will enroll your child in either school.
What is in the “best interest” for my child; to stay in the same school or change schools?
The decision about your child’s school enrollment will take into consideration factors such as:
- Special needs for your child
- Continuity of instruction
- Likely length of stay in your new place of residence
- Location
- Time and distance to transport your child to and from school.
If I am homeless, what documents do I need to enroll my child in school?
- School Records
- Birth Certificate
- Immunizations
But, if you do not have these documents, your child cannot be denied entry. The school must help obtain any documents needed for enrollment.
Can my child ride the school bus?
Your child’s school will provide transportation for your child. You cannot be denied access to the school that is in the best interest of your child because of lack of transportation.
Does my child have the same rights as other school children?
Your child has the same rights to school programs and services as all children, including:
- School Breakfast & Lunch
- Before/After School Programs
- Preschool Programs
- Transportation
- Special Education
- Gifted and Talented Programs
- Career & Technology Education
Contact:
Patricia Julianelle
State Homeless Education Coordinator, Title I-Program Improvement & Family Support
Office: (410) 767-5153
Cell: (410) 916-5123
patricia.julianelle@maryland.gov