McCracken County Schools and Paducah Public Schools have been awarded a three-year collaborative McKinney Vento Homeless Assistance Act Grant totaling $610,437.51. The purpose of this grant is to facilitate the enrollment, attendance, and success of homeless children and youth in public schools. This grant is funded through the U.S. Department of Education and administered by the Kentucky Department of Education.
This program provides assistance and support for students and families experiencing homelessness in both school districts. Applying as a consortium demonstrates the cohesive efforts for students experiencing homelessness across both school districts. Each district has a Homeless Student Coordinator that is dedicated to being an advocate for our students and families.
Heather Anderson, Paducah Public Schools Homeless Student Coordinator says, “This grant is a lifeline for students experiencing homelessness. It will allow our districts to provide students with the support they need to thrive in school and in life by providing transportation assistance, tutoring programs and by removing other non-academic barriers”. Brandy Dix, McCracken County Schools Homeless Student Coordinator adds, “Unfortunately, due to the recession, homelessness is at an all-time high. The McKinney-Vento grant is a vital resource for our students experiencing homelessness. It ensures they receive consistent education and support, helping them maintain a sense of normalcy and stability. With this grant, we can provide the necessary resources and opportunities for our students to flourish and reach their full potential, despite the challenges they face”.
Funding from this grant will begin in the 2024-25 school year and go through the end of the 2026-27 school year.