ADMINISTRATIVE

     During the months of October and early November, the
  Virginia Homeless Education Program will be conducting a
  survey to obtain an estimate of the number of homeless
  children and youth in the Commonwealth and to determine their
  educational needs and the services that are currently
  available to them.  This information is being compiled in
  conjunction with Virginia's House Joint Resolution 181 and in
  compliance with the federal mandates of the Stewart B.
  McKinney Homeless Assistance Act.  Through the cooperation of
  schools and shelters, the intent of the General Assembly is to
  more accurately and persuasively document the needs of
  homeless children in Virginia.

     Our first goal is to determine the number of children and
  youth in the state whose living conditions meet the criteria
  of homelessness.  A form has been sent to each school in your
  division requesting a count and demographic data on homeless
  children.  Please encourage your principals to complete this
  form and return it on or before November 22, 1996.

     In addition, we wish to collect data at the central
  office level to develop a clearer understanding of the
  coordination of services and policy issues that relate to this
  population of students.  Please complete the attached form and
  return to Dr. James Stronge.  The McKinney Act requires that
  each state provide homeless children and youth access to, and
  appropriate educational services in, the public schools
  comparable to that provided children of residents.  Your
  assistance in completing this survey is vital to obtaining up-to-date
  information regarding the problems faced by homeless
  families and their children and the efforts that are already
  underway to address their needs.

     Should you have questions regarding the homeless child
  estimate or other issues related to the education of homeless
  children and youth, please contact Dr. James H. Stronge,
  Virginia Homeless Education Program, The College of William &
  Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia  23187-8795, (757) 221-4002.

     Thank you for your time and assistance.


  RTL:tsc

  Enclosure:  This memo and its attachments will be sent to the
              Superintendent's Office.