Huntley Project School District - Homeless Student Support Narrative
The Huntley Project School District remains committed to ensuring that all students experiencing homelessness receive the services and support guaranteed under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. Our district works to identify, support, and remove barriers so that homeless students can fully access educational opportunities and participate in school life.
During the past year, the district experienced a transition in the Homeless Liaison role when our previous liaison moved to another district. Our new liaison, Kari Caster, assumed the responsibilities of the position but had not yet completed the required certification training at the start of the school year. Ms. Caster successfully completed her seven hours of required liaison training in early September, at which time she became fully certified. Following completion of the training, she provided a staff presentation to ensure district employees were aware of identification procedures, student rights, and the supports available to students experiencing homelessness.
The district also provides ongoing professional development opportunities for staff. Huntley Project School District holds a Professional Learning Community (PLC) on Friday once a month for approximately 5 hours, providing time for collaboration and training. Additional McKinney-Vento training has been scheduled for next year's back-to-school professional development, as Ms. Caster will be returning to continue supporting the program. Because certified staff are contractually required to attend these sessions, the district did not maintain a separate sign-in sheet for attendance. The district actively collaborates with community organizations to support students and families experiencing homelessness.
The district set aside $3,500 to support collaboration with area agencies and organizations that assist families in need. Huntley Project School District partners with local churches and community organizations to provide food and other necessities. Staff and students help gather food donations for a local church that operates a community food bank, and two additional churches regularly help deliver them. The district also keeps snacks available that administrators distribute to students in need.
In addition, the school organizes and supports local service events that raise funds for the Christmas Bright Program, a community initiative that assists families experiencing financial hardship during the holiday season. This program supports both homeless students and other families in need within the district community.
HP - Homeless Student Support Narrative
MV-C HP Comprehensive Intervention Plan 2026