Disaster Planning and Response: Indiana Department of Education
Frequently Asked Questions

 

#   Question and Answer
 
1 Q

Do I enroll a student who has been displaced if that child has no educational records or identifying information?

A Yes. Such students should be enrolled immediately in the school district where they currently reside. They do not need to provide birth certificates school records, immunization records, proof of guardianship, or proof of residency to enroll in school.  
 
2 Q

If a storm victim is residing with Indiana family members, are they considered “homeless” under the McKinney-Vento Act?

A

Yes. McKinney-Vento specifies that students should be considered homeless if they are in one of the following living situations:

  • sharing the housing of others due to a loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason;
  • motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds
  • emergency or transitional shelters;
  • abandoned in hospitals;
  • awaiting foster care placement
 
3 Q

Some storm victims may move several times before finding a permanent residence. Must the student change schools each time he/she relocates?

A No. The McKinney-Vento Act provides school stability by allowing homeless students to continue to attend the same school if it is feasible for them to do so and desired by their parents or guardians.
 
4 Q

These students may require substantial health, mental health, and material needs. What resources are available to them in Indiana?

A

Although it is permissible to use McKinney-Vento funds for these purposes, more substantial resources may be available through government relief agencies and charitable organizations. Contact local agencies and medical facilities to determine how they can assist you. With respect to schools planning around these needs go to the UCLA School Mental Health Project website <smhp.psych.ucla.edu/crisisresp.htm> for resources and suggestions. 

 
5 Q

Are these students eligible for Title 1 funding?

A

Yes. Title 1 has a particular responsibility to serve homeless students both in Title 1 and non-Title 1 schools.

 

6 Q

Is it necessary to assign a Student Test Number (STN) to these students?

A Yes.
 
7 Q

Will these students be required to take the ISTEP and GQE tests?

A Yes, if they are placed in Grades 3 - 10. The results of the ISTEP tests, however, will not count against the Adequate Yearly Progress of the school. Students wishing to graduate from high school will be required to take the GQE, but, having done so, will then be eligible to appeal if they do not pass.
 
8 Q

Is the Third Party Custodial Agreement Form required to enroll these students?

A

No, but it is recommended if the student will be residing with someone other than a parent for any significant length of time.

 
9 Q

Where can I get information on mental health support services or substance abuse issues?

A

Contact the Office of Student Services at 800-833-2199.