In this episode of Housing for Good, we sit down with Ty Rhodes of McPherson USD 418 to explore how schools identify and support students experiencing homelessness through the McKinney-Vento Act.

What does student homelessness actually look like? As Ty explains, it often doesn’t match the stereotypes people expect. Many students are attending class, participating in school, and doing their best to blend in while facing instability at home.

This conversation highlights the hidden realities behind student homelessness, the challenges schools face in identifying those in need, and the critical supports that help remove barriers to education, including transportation, meals, and waived fees.

It also raises an important question for communities: how many students are struggling quietly without anyone realizing it?