The McKinney-Vento Act is a federal law implemented across Tennessee that guarantees students experiencing homelessness equal access to a free, appropriate public education by removing barriers to their enrollment and academic success. Millington Municipal Schools’ Local Homeless Liasion is Zane Adams, Director of Student Services. 

Who Qualifies: The law covers any student lacking a "fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence." This includes children living in shelters, motels, cars, campgrounds, or those "doubled up" in shared housing with other families due to economic hardship or loss of housing.

Immediate Enrollment: Schools are required to enroll eligible students immediately, even if they cannot provide normally required documentation like birth certificates, proof of residency, previous school records, or immunization forms at the time of enrollment. Families must meet with the Local Homless Liasion prior to the completion of the enrollment process. 

School Stability and Transportation: To prevent academic disruption, students have the right to remain in their "school of origin" (the school they attended when permanently housed or last enrolled) for the duration of their homelessness, provided it is in their best interest. 

Full Participation: Students must be granted full access to all educational services, preschool programs, and extracurricular activities without facing administrative or financial barriers. Local liaisons and coordinators also help connect families to needed school supplies and community health resources.