Homeless students take center stage again in Guilford County

A while back here on GSW, the homeless student population was profiled.

It takes center stage again as a new report released by GCS states more than 900 students in the system are homeless.

N&R:

Homeless numbers are expected to increase in county schools this year, according to a report released by the system today.

Officials said about 930 students are currently homeless. The total number of students who experienced homelessness at the end of the 2007-08 school year was 1,282. Officials believe this year's total could surpass that.

GCS:

Last year, a total of 1,282 students were considered homeless by the end of the year. Already this year, approximately 930 students in GCS are homeless, a number that is expected to increase as the year progresses.

“Unfortunately, if this trend continues, we could see a significant increase in the number of students who are homeless by the end of this year compared to last year,” said Richard Tuck, dropout prevention/intervention/parent outreach supervisor. “However, as a district, we have many resources to help these children be successful, and we want to make sure all parents know how we can help.”

The schools, parents and community agencies all have a part in supporting these students, which is outlined in the McKinney-Vento Act, a federal law passed to help families who are homeless keep their children in school. According to the law, a child or youth is considered homeless if he or she lacks a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence.

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E.C. :)