Families in Transition (FIT)

Students or families who do not have a permanent residence, who rely on shared housing due to economic hardship, or who are experiencing homelessness qualify for services thorugh the Families in Transition program. Families in Transition is governed by the McKinney-Vento Act. The McKinney-Vento Act is a federal law ensuring immediate enrollment, stability, and support for children and youth experiencing homelessness.

This includes students who are:

• In a shelter (family, individual, domestic violence, youth or temporary housing)
• In transitional housing
• In a motel or hotel
• Sharing housing with others due to loss of housing or economic hardship
• Living on the street, in a car, a park, an abandoned building or similar structure

Students in these situations may enroll in school regardless of address verification and/or a parent/guardian.  Guardians and/or students needing to enroll under these circumstances should enroll online and select their housing situation or contact the enrollment center. The Families in Transition Coordinator will then reach out or can be contacted at 218-336-8700 ext 2370.

** Residency Verification Support **
We are here to help you through the enrollment process. If your family is currently unable to provide traditional residency verification, the district offers an exception process. By completing the Student Residency Verification Exception Form, you can provide a sworn statement regarding your current living situation.
To use this option, you will need to:

• Explain your circumstances: Provide a detailed reason why standard documentation cannot be submitted.
• The School Principal must review and approve the statement to assume responsibility for the verification.