THE VISABLE CHILD INITIATIVE School 101: Being an Effective Advocate for Homeless Children – Understanding Homeless Children’s Public Education Rights Jim Johnson Director of Student Support Services Minneapolis Public Schools January 26, 2010

Who are these children & youth? July 1, 2007 – June 30, , 458 Total children & youth identified

Reoccurring Homelessness for Children & Youth in Minneapolis 1 12,188 7, ,660 1, Total Unduplicated Children & Youth 15,401 8,786 from 2004 – 08 (4 years) # Years Repeated Identified in Minneapolis Enrolled in MPS

MPS Quick Facts 6.4% of enrollment or an average of 1200 students are identified on any given day 94% are students from communities of color Relatively low number of English Language Learners Relatively high number of Special Education Students 80% identified in shelters 20% identified by schools 84% average attendance compared to district average of 92%

What the Data Means We are facing increasing numbers of HHM students. These students are not just enrolled in the core cities but in all schools in the metro region. In the current economy, the numbers of qualifying students may increase.

What the Data Means We need to focus on attendance We need to focus on supports We need to focus on achievement

Minneapolis Public Schools Contacts Elizabeth Hinz Jim Johnson