The McKinney-Vento Act and Children and Youth ... - State of Michigan

Fully implementing the McKinney-Vento Act for all eligible youth requires
significant funding. In fact, current McKinney-Vento funding is insufficient
to reach all the children and youth eligible for services under current law.
Only 6% of school districts, serving roughly half of the homeless children
and youth identified by schools, receive funds. Therefore, additional funding
is desperately needed.
8. Involve youth in care and alumni in all policymaking
endeavors.
Young people must be active participants in all policy-making endeavors.
Getting direct input from youth in out-of-home care strengthens the response
and activities of child welfare and education agencies, from individual
teachers and caseworkers to state and federal policy makers. Young people are
the most experienced and well-informed experts available regarding their own
strengths and challenges.
“Young people have a lot to contribute. They bring energy, and fresh and unique
perspectives; they may offer ideas and solutions that have not been considered or offer a
new approach to an old idea. Youth also bring a unique range of knowledge about youth
issues” 60
In addition to benefiting the collaborations, service providers, and youth
receiving the services, youth involvement also contributes to the self-esteem
and success of those who participate. Foster Care Alumni of America and
other state groups of alumni from care are experts on policy and practice.
Educators and child welfare agencies should take advantage of their profound
expertise.
58 The McKinney-Vento Act and Children and Youth Awaiting Foster Care Placement