The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act was authorized by Congress in December 2001, as part of the No Child Left Behind Legislation. The purpose of the McKinney-Vento Act is to remove barriers to education for homeless/transitional students and provide educational stability.

Under the McKinney-Vento Act, students have the right to remain in attendance at the school they were going to when they were last permanently housed. This is known as their "school of origin." Clover Park School District will do everything possible to ensure that students have the ability to remain in their school of origin, and to succeed academically. CPSD will provide transportation assistance and free meals for all eligible homeless students. Tutoring and other academic assistance, including school supplies and clothing, are also available. 
​​​​​​​McKinney-Vento Act of 1986

Any child or youth who lacks a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence is considered homeless, including those who are temporarily sharing housing with others due to loss of housing or economic hardship. This includes children and youth who are living in hotels; camping grounds; emergency shelters; cars; bus or train stations, or other similar settings; unaccompanied youth; transitional housing programs and children in foster or temporary placements. If you are not sure if a child qualifies, call 253-583-5157.

Clover Park schools provide equal and comparable access to all students regardless of their home living situation. McKinney-Vento eligible children and youth have specific rights, including the right to:

• Maintain attendance at the school of origin (if this is in the child's best interest), or enroll in the local school where currently residing;
• Receive assistance with transportation;
• Become eligible for free meals;
• Receive assistance obtaining needed records and documentation;
• Receive support services and programs for which they are eligible, such as gifted education, children with disabilities, vocational education, and preschool;
• Receive academic assistance through the district's federally funded Title I program;
• Have parent or guardian involvement in school activities; and
• Maintain enrollment in the current school for the remainder of the school year (with transportation assistance, if needed).

• Cellphone Lifeline and other free cell programs for eligible applicants
• Low Income Housing in Pierce County
• Emergency Food Network
• ChildCare Aware of Washington State
• Metropolitan Development Council - Several resources for low income and homeless families in Tacoma and Pierce County.
• DSHS Emergency Programs
• Sea Mar Community Health - Healthcare for homeless individuals and families.
• Free and charitable health clinics
• WA State Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
• Associated Ministries - resources and referrals for homeless individuals and families. Must contact Coordinate Entry (253) 682-3401 to access most community shelters and housing services.
• Family Renewal Shelter - for victims of domestic violence.
• Pierce County Housing Authority
• Pierce County Alliance, Youth Services - Foster care and independent living programs.
• WA State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction - Education of Homeless Children and Youth - Guidance and requirements for McKinney Vento and the education of homeless children.
• WA State Office of the Education Ombudsman - Supports schools and families in resolving concerns, provides information and training.