Questions
Bessemer City Schools
Homeless Education Program
The Bessemer City Schools Title I Homeless Education Program is a District-wide school-based program that promotes school stability and academic success of displaced children and youth.
WHO ARE WE?
Dr Dana Arreola, Superintendent of Bessemer City Schools
Dr. Eric James, Director of Federal Programs for Bessemer City Schools
WHERE ARE WE LOCATED?
Bessemer Board of Education, Homeless Education Program
1621 5th Avenue, North, Bessemer, Alabama 35020
Phone: 205-432-3000
HOURS: Monday-Friday 8:00-4:00 PM
WHAT IS HOMELESSNESS?
A family living in a temporary shelter, hotel or motel, campground, vehicle, or living in substandard housing or doubled up with friends or relatives because they don’t have a place of their own due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason.
An unaccompanied youth who is a runaway, in temporary foster care, or is not in physical custody of a parent or guardian, and does not have a permanent nighttime residence.
MCKINNEY-VENTO ACT:
The McKinney-Vento Act is a federal law, passed in 1987, to help people experiencing homelessness. Under the McKinney-Vento Act, it is the obligation of all districts to identify all homeless students. McKinney-Vento is designed to address barriers that homeless children and youth face such as enrollment issues, attendance, and the overall success of the student within the school. Many homeless children and youth within the city of Bessemer are identified by the designated homeless liaison located at each of our eight schools. Most of our homeless in the city of Bessemer have been identified as doubled up; they are temporarily living with friends or family. This is typically due to fire, domestic violence, low income, increased family size, or loss of job. The Bessemer City Board of Education, the Department of Federal Programs, and the Homeless Education Coordinator will ensure that homeless students within our community have access to a high-quality education and other services necessary for these students to meet the same challenging performance standards as other students.
SERVICES WE PROVIDE
Assistance with enrollment and translator if needed
Transportation to the school of origin within the district when possible
Assistance with school supplies, school uniforms, and hygiene products
Assistance with community resources
Parent Training and Mentoring Programs
Professional Development to school personnel
Community Outreach
Funding for Field Trips, Graduation Fees, and Related Activities
HOW CAN YOU HELP US TO HELP OUR DISPLACED STUDENTS AND FAMILIES?
While students experience instability in their home lives due to homelessness, school is often a place of safety and security. All students should feel safe and have a sense of belonging in a consistent and caring environment. Please call the numbers above or email our program with any student you suspect may be homeless. Identifying and serving as many homeless students as possible is vitally important. I appreciate your help.
