Public schools would enroll students experiencing homelessness without required records

Public schools would immediately enroll students experiencing homelessness even when required records are missing. These protections would cover children and youth who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate place to sleep at night. Schools could not delay enrollment because of unpaid fees, fines, or absences, or because homelessness caused a missed application or enrollment deadline. Students would receive access to educational programs and services for which they qualify. These requirements would take effect 60 days after enactment.

Schools would choose between keeping students in their previous school and enrolling them where they currently live, based on each student's best interests. The previous school includes the school last attended or attended when permanently housed, including preschool, and its designated next-grade school after the student completes the final grade. Schools would favor the previous school unless that conflicts with the parent's or guardian's request, or the request of a youth outside their physical custody. Schools would prioritize those requests and consider the student's education, health, and safety. Continued placement would cover the period of homelessness and the rest of the academic year if permanent housing begins during that year.

Schools would assign a staff contact to help with enrollment and transportation, and the state education department would provide a process for challenging school decisions. Disputes could concern eligibility, school selection, or enrollment; students would attend the requested school while disputes and appeals are pending. Families, or youth outside a parent's or guardian's physical custody, would receive written explanations and appeal information, with staff help and access to state review. Transportation would continue during school selection or enrollment disputes and through the academic year if the student becomes permanently housed during that year.