As summer ends and schools prepare to welcome students back, most families are busy checking off supply lists and planning their fall routines. But for Survivors of domestic violence, this time of year brings a much heavier burden: fear, uncertainty, and worry about how escaping abuse will affect their children’s education.

At Control Alt Delete, we understand Survivors who are rebuilding their lives after abuse. One of the most common concerns we hear is:
“If I leave, what will happen to my kids and their school?”

The good news: the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act exists to protect the educational rights of children and youth experiencing housing instability, including those fleeing domestic violence situations.

What Is the McKinney-Vento Act?

The McKinney-Vento Act is a federal law designed to remove barriers to education for students experiencing homelessness or displacement. The law defines “homeless” broadly, and includes:

• Children living in shelters or transitional housing programs

• Children temporarily staying with others due to domestic violence or housing loss

• Children living in hotels, motels, vehicles, or campgrounds

• Children without a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence

If a child has had to flee their home due to abuse and is now in an unstable living arrangement, they qualify for McKinney-Vento protections—even if they are not in a formal shelter.

Key McKinney-Vento Protections for Children Fleeing Domestic Violence

Survivors who are concerned about school disruption for their children should know that the McKinney-Vento Act guarantees:

✅ Immediate Enrollment

Schools must enroll children right away, even if they are missing records, immunizations, or proof of residency.

✅ School Stability

Children can stay at their school of origin (the school they attended before the escape), or enroll in a new school near where they are currently staying—whichever is in the child’s best interest.

✅ Transportation Support

The school district may provide transportation to and from the school of origin, reducing the burden on displaced families and helping children maintain consistency in their education.

✅ Free School Meals and Other Services

Students are automatically eligible for free school meals, and school districts must provide referrals to services like counseling, mental health support, and academic resources.

✅ A Designated Liaison

Every school district has a McKinney-Vento liaison who helps families navigate the enrollment process, access services, and resolve any issues.

Why the McKinney-Vento Act Matters for Domestic Violence Survivors

Escaping domestic abuse often means leaving behind a home, a job, and a support system. Survivors may worry that pulling their children out of school or relocating them will cause even more trauma.

But with McKinney-Vento protections in place, Survivors don’t have to choose between safety and education.

Children escaping abuse can stay in school, continue learning, and maintain a sense of stability during a chaotic and painful time. In fact, school can become a much-needed source of routine, structure, and support.

How to Get Help

If you’re a Survivor who has recently left an abusive situation or is planning an escape:

1. Contact your child’s school district and ask to speak with the McKinney-Vento liaison.

2. Explain your current living situation—there is no need to prove abuse or have formal documentation.

3. The liaison will help ensure your child is enrolled quickly and receives transportation and other necessary supports.

If you’re helping someone escape domestic violence, make sure they know about the McKinney-Vento Act. Many Survivors aren’t aware that this law exists—or that they and their children qualify for these protections.