USD116 BOE Update: Oct. 10, 2023

The District Family Liaison, gave an update on McKinney-Vento Services and Community Partnerships.

Between July and September of 2023, there have been upwards of 65 McKinney-Vento Common Forms filled out. This indicates a current 1.55% homeless student population within our district.

District’s Resources to Meet Student and Family Needs: There are a variety of resources the District can utilize to connect a student/family with items they need. Including:

• Housing referrals
• Tiger Market and lists of other food panties/soup kitchens
• Access to clothing, shoes, and personal use items through Mrs. Mitchell's Closet or referrals to other places that have free or reduced cost items.

There is an amazon wishlist for anyone who would like to donate to Mrs. Mitchell's closest.

View the full presentation

Q: Explain what is McKinney-Vento and who qualifies for that?

A: You have to be homeless, you cannot be housing threatened. McKinney-Vento is a set of laws that protects families and provides services for families who are homeless. One of the biggest protections is transportation to a student's home school, even if they no longer reside in that city due to homelessness. Homeless under McKinney-Vento is very broad. You would be considered homeless if you are "doubled-up" (living with another family) or living in an unsuitable living situation (garage, vehicle, hotel/motel, outside). First Student is required to provide bus services to our students that are homeless. The driver shortage has made that difficult, however, we continue to work with First Student to resolve that. Our backup has always been utilizing cab companies. Right now, there are limited cab companies in our area. The District continues to work on solutions.

Q: How long does the process take to get services?

A: As soon as the District is aware, they submit forms for services. Usually it takes a couple of days for a family to get placed with a caseworker.

Q: Do these students have access to school supplies after the beginning of the year?

A: The District has school supplies on hand and they are given out whenever someone indicates they need them.

Q: Does the District have resources for families that are not homeless, but home threatened?

A: Yes, we have contact with families and students that are not homeless, but have other challenges -- food insecurity, clothing needs, etc.

The Board approved a proposal from IGW Architecture for professional services in connection with Wiley School.

View the programming/concept planning study

The Board approved a professional services agreement with RSP & Associates, LLC. for the purpose of redistricting.

View the professional services agreement

Highlights:

• 50 years of Early Childhood Education in Urbana. Join the celebration on Nov. 9 at 5 p.m. at UECS.
• Congrats to TMB and Color Guard!
• Fall break is October 16-20

The BOE Student Ambassador report is available here: October 10, 2023

Highlights:

• UHS Tailgate this Friday, October 13, 5:30-8 p.m. at UHS
• Oct. 20 is the last home football game, it is also senior night