State of Alaska Home

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is homeless?

Anyone who, due to a lack of housing, lives:

  • In a shelter
  • In a motel
  • In a vehicle
  • In a campground
  • On the street
  • Doubled up with relatives or friends
Where can homeless children and youth attend school?
  • The school in which the child or youth was last enrolled (school of origin), or
  • The school in the attendance area where the child or youth is temporarily living
Can students experiencing homelessness be denied enrollment if the parent/guardian does not have proof of residency?

No. The parent/guardian may sign an affidavit stating that the family is staying in temporary accommodations.

What if the parent/guardian does not have the school records for a child experiencing homelessness?
  • The homeless child or youth should be enrolled in school until the records arrive.
  • The student’s immunization records and school transcripts should be requested from the previous school of attendance.
Additional Information: State Guidance Immunizations for Homeless Students
What if the school disagrees with the parent/guardian request for immediate enrollment of a homeless child or youth?

Student should be immediately enrolled in the school requested by the child’s parent or guardian. School should begin the dispute resolution process.

Contact your school district, principal, counselor, or local homeless education liaison with any concerns.