legal Aid Bureau OF Buffalo

School Stability (Homeless & Foster Youth)

Various federal and state laws protect students’ access to school, as well as their ongoing stability in school enrollment.  The majority of EAP’s school-access work involves students experiencing homelessness or family instability.  Such students are entitled to remain in their “schools of origin” following housing/home displacement and to daily transportation.  EAP typically supports children and families through non-litigation advocacy with school districts.

We encourage child-serving professionals to contact us if they require assistance enrolling a child in school and the district disputes the child’s eligibility on the basis of homelessness / placement in foster care.  Please also see our guides and template letters to get started.