federal funds for transporting homeless students. It is expected to be re-introduced in the 112th session of Congress. In the meantime, while policy solutions are pending, we must


strengthen our partnerships, and re-examine our transportation strategies to be sure they are efficient and effective. Many school districts provide compelling examples from which we can learn and borrow. Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), for example, revised an existing position within transportation to focus on coordinating homeless transportation. Te shift from a piece- meal approach to a focused, comprehensive approach has led to cost savings and improvements in services to homeless students. Previously, the homeless liaison’s office requested transportation from the transportation department, then the transportation department arranged what was most convenient, based on the information provided about the family. However, without the ability to learn the details of the family’s situation, and to follow the family throughout their homeless episode, the transporta- tion method chosen was not always the most cost-effective or efficient. By dedicating attention to the entire family’s situation, and carefully reviewing all the transportation options with each change of residence, the homeless transportation coordinator is able to make efficient arrangements and dramatically reduce the use of taxis — the most expensive form of transportation. Moreover, the homeless education office learns of attendance is-


sues much sooner, and is able to intervene early when a concern arises. Te new approach has allowed the district to be proac- tive, more closely connected to community service agencies, and more family-oriented. In just one example, when working with a family in a shelter who had a child with special needs, and a pre-school child, the transportation coordinator was able to ar- range transportation for both children. In the past, the request for transportation came from the school concerning the school- age child, but the pre-school child would have fallen through the cracks and missed out on critical early learning opportunities. As policy director for NAEHCY, I work with states and school


districts from coast to coast who, like Fairfax County, have made extraordinary efforts to ensure that school is a home for children and youth who do not have one of their own. Without exception, the leadership, commitment and insights of school transporta- tion departments are essential to this work. We understand the enormity of the challenges involved in providing transportation to homeless children and youth, and we are grateful to the trans- portation professionals who partner with us. We look forward to continuing and enhancing our collaboration to strengthen the lifeline that education provides to our children and youth expe- riencing homelessness. ■


Barbara Duffield may be reached at bduffield@naehcy.org. AX-0009 Privitization ad STN:AX-0009 Privitization ad STN 7/12/10 3:31 PM Page 1


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