Unaccompanied Youth

Unaccompanied Youth

Aromas-San Juan Unified School District is committed to supporting students who are not living with a parent or legal guardian. These students, known as unaccompanied youth, have the right to enroll in school and receive support to ensure their educational success.

Who Are Unaccompanied Youth?

Under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, unaccompanied youth are students who:

• Are not in the physical custody of a parent or legal guardian
• May be experiencing homelessness or housing instability

This can include students who are staying with friends or relatives, living in temporary housing, or on their own.

Educational Rights

Unaccompanied youth have the right to:

• Enroll in school immediately, even without a parent/guardian or required documents
• Attend their school of origin, when in their best interest
• Receive transportation to their school of origin, if eligible
• Access free meals and other school programs
• Receive support from the district’s McKinney-Vento Liaison

Students cannot be denied enrollment due to lack of records, proof of residency, or a parent/guardian signature.

Support for Students

Aromas-San Juan Unified is committed to providing a safe, stable, and supportive school environment.

Support may include:

• Assistance with enrollment and school records
• Connections to counseling and school-based support services
• Referrals to community resources
• Help accessing basic needs and services

How to Get Help

If you are a student in this situation, or if you know a student who may need support, please contact your school site for assistance.

You may also contact the District’s McKinney-Vento Liaison, Michelle Dougherty at mdougherty@asjusd.org who can help connect students to services and ensure their educational rights are protected.