Students Experiencing Homelessness
In accordance with state and federal law, the Highland Park Independent School District provides assistance to students in the Highland Park ISD who meet the definition of homeless.
What is the definition of homeless under the McKinney-Vento Act?
A student experiencing homelessness lacks a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence and may live in one of the following places:
- Sharing the housing of others due to loss of housing or economic hardship
- Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, campgrounds, or similar settings
- Living in emergency or transitional housing
- Living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, or substandard housing.
What criteria is available to help determine who qualifies?
Please click to view and complete the Student Residency Questionnaire for submission to enrollment staff at the school to which the student is enrolling.
To help assess eligibility, reference the McKinney-Vento Eligibility Flowchart.
What school services are available to students experiencing homelessness?
Students in homeless situations and unaccompanied youth may receive assistance with the following:
- School enrollment immediately. Records normally required of all students in order to enroll are NOT required of students who are in homeless situations in order to enroll. This includes proof of residency, proof of guardianship, school or immunization records, birth certificates and social security cards.
- School breakfast/lunch (may request assistance by a separate application)
- Transportation to and from the school of origin, if requested and eligible
- Transition planning
- Tutoring in after-school programs
- Referrals for family counseling and parenting instruction
- Referrals to community agencies
How long are services available to students who qualify?
Students who qualify are eligible to receive services through the remainder of the school year. Eligibility is reassessed every year.
What community resources are available to students experiencing homelessness?
Where other resources are available concerning the education of students experiencing homelessness?
- Texas Education Code (TEC) §§ 25.001, 25.002, and 29.153
- National Center for Homeless Education
- TEA -Texas Education for Homeless Children and Youth
- Education Service Center-Region 10
- HPISD Board policies FDC
For referrals, questions and assistance regarding eligibility and services, please contact the HPISD Homeless Liaison:
Through June 27, 2024
Cristy Hirsh
Director of Student and Administrative Services
HPISD Administration Building
7015 Westchester Drive
Dallas, TX 75205
214-780-3015
Effective July 1, 2024
Dr. Josue Romero
Director of Student Services
HPISD Administration Building
7015 Westchester Drive
Dallas, TX 75205
214-780-3015