Special Services

Special Programs

Support for Students Experiencing Homelessness at PSPVA

At Pine Springs Preparatory Virtual Academy (PSPVA), we are committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive environment for all students, ensuring equal opportunities for academic success in compliance with Federal and North Carolina laws. Our programs and services address the unique needs of all eligible students, including those experiencing homelessness.

Educational Rights for Homeless Students

Homeless students are entitled to the same free and appropriate educational opportunities as their peers. This commitment applies to all PSPVA services and programs. 

Under the McKinney-Vento Act, “homeless children and youths” include individuals without a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence, such as:

  • Living with others due to housing loss or hardship
  • Staying in shelters, motels, cars, or public spaces
  • Residing in substandard housing, campgrounds, or youth shelters
  • Youth living independently without parental custody

Homeless students may remain in their school of origin throughout the year, if feasible, or enroll in their current district of residence. Those temporarily without a legal guardian may qualify as “unaccompanied youth.”

Available Support Services

PSPVA ensures homeless students can:

  • Access free public education
  • Enroll immediately without typical documents
  • Attend classes while enrollment documents are gathered
  • Choose between their school of origin or local school
  • Receive transportation and other needed services
  • Access comparable educational opportunities

Our Commitment

PSPVA strives to:

  • Ensure educational access
  • Connect families to resources
  • Partner with community organizations
  • Educate stakeholders about homelessness

If you are experiencing homelessness, please contact the Homeless Student Liaison. Determinations of qualifying students are made on a case-by-case basis.