What are the most effective ways to support students experiencing housing instability?

1 Identify and connect

The first step is to identify students who are experiencing housing instability and connect them with the appropriate resources and services. You can use various indicators, such as attendance, behavior, grades, health, and self-reporting, to identify students who may be facing housing challenges. You can also collaborate with other staff, such as counselors, social workers, nurses, and teachers, to monitor and support students who are at risk. You can then connect students and their families with the available resources and services, such as the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, which provides educational rights and protections for homeless students, or local agencies and organizations that offer housing assistance, food, clothing, transportation, and other support.

2 Build trust and rapport

The second step is to build trust and rapport with students who are experiencing housing instability and show them that you care about them and their success. You can do this by creating a positive and supportive school climate, where students feel safe, respected, and valued. You can also communicate regularly and openly with students and their families, and listen to their needs, concerns, and preferences. You can also acknowledge and celebrate their strengths, achievements, and resilience, and provide them with positive feedback and encouragement. You can also involve them in decision-making and planning, and empower them to advocate for themselves and their peers.

4 Promote attendance and participation

The fourth step is to promote attendance and participation for students who are experiencing housing instability and help them stay connected and involved in school. You can do this by implementing attendance policies and practices that are sensitive and responsive to the housing situations of students. You can also provide incentives and recognition for attendance and participation, such as awards, certificates, or rewards. You can also provide transportation assistance, such as bus passes, vouchers, or carpooling, that facilitates their access to school. You can also provide opportunities for extracurricular activities, such as clubs, sports, or arts, that enhance their sense of belonging and identity.

5 Foster diversity, equity, and inclusion

The fifth step is to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion for students who are experiencing housing instability and help them feel valued and respected in school. You can do this by raising awareness and understanding of the causes and effects of housing instability, and challenging the stereotypes and stigma associated with it. You can also promote a culture of respect and empathy, where students appreciate and celebrate the diversity and uniqueness of their peers. You can also ensure that the curriculum, materials, and activities reflect and honor the experiences and perspectives of students who are experiencing housing instability. You can also provide opportunities for advocacy and action, where students can voice their opinions and contribute to positive change.

6 Collaborate and coordinate

The sixth step is to collaborate and coordinate with other stakeholders and partners who are involved in supporting students who are experiencing housing instability. You can do this by establishing and maintaining effective communication and collaboration with other school staff, such as counselors, social workers, nurses, and teachers, who can provide additional support and guidance for students. You can also partner with other agencies and organizations, such as local housing authorities, shelters, food banks, health centers, and community groups, who can offer essential resources and services for students and their families. You can also engage with other educational leaders, such as district administrators, school board members, and policymakers, who can influence and advocate for policies and practices that address the needs and rights of students who are experiencing housing instability.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?