"Overcoming Obstacles: Addressing the Plight of Homeless Students"
Schools are facing challenges in distributing the $800 million allocated for supporting homeless K-12 students under the American Rescue Plan. The funds can be used for various needs, such as transportation, cell phones, personal care products, and emergency housing. However, schools are struggling to spend the money before the September 2024 deadline due to competing demands, spending constraints, and a lack of updated guidance from the Education Department. Advocates are urging the department to issue new guidance that addresses the use of federal funds for homeless students and prohibits state governments from restricting local school spending. The forthcoming guidance is expected to arrive this month.