Bridging the Gap: The Vital Role of Quality Transportation for Homeless and Foster Care Students

Every child deserves equal access to education — no matter their living situation.

For thousands of children in the United States experiencing homelessness or living in foster care, simply getting to school can be one of the greatest challenges. That’s where the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act comes in — a federal law that ensures educational stability for homeless students, including the right to safe, reliable, and uninterrupted transportation to and from school.

But legislation alone is not enough. Execution matters — and that’s where specialized providers like Assured Specialty Transportation are making a difference.

Understanding the McKinney-Vento Act

Passed in 1987 and updated over the years, the McKinney-Vento Act mandates that school districts identify and support students experiencing homelessness by providing services that remove barriers to education. One of the most critical services outlined in the law is transportation.

Why is this so important?

Because stability matters. Students who frequently change schools due to unstable housing face:

• Lower academic performance.

• Increased absenteeism.

• Emotional and behavioral challenges.

• Higher dropout rates.

The McKinney-Vento Act guarantees these students the right to stay in their school of origin — even if they move outside the district — and requires schools to provide transportation to support this continuity.

Foster Care Students: A Parallel Struggle

Students in foster care face many of the same challenges. Frequent moves, emotional upheaval, and inconsistent routines can deeply impact their academic and social development. Like McKinney-Vento, the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) requires school districts and child welfare agencies to work together to provide transportation to the “school of origin” for foster youth as well.

Why Transportation Quality Matters

For these vulnerable populations, transportation isn’t just a ride — it’s a lifeline.

Poorly managed or unsafe transportation can increase anxiety, lead to missed school days, and put students at physical and emotional risk. What’s needed is a service that is dependable, compassionate, and deeply committed to the safety and dignity of every child.

How Assured Specialty Transportation Is Leading the Way

Assured Specialty Transportation is more than a logistics company — it’s a mission-driven partner for school districts, caregivers, and families.

With a deep understanding of the unique needs of McKinney-Vento and foster care students, Assured provides:

• Safe, monitored transportation with vetted, trained drivers.

• On-time service that respects each student’s right to consistency.

• Clear communication with schools, districts, and caregivers.

• Empathy-first service, recognizing that these students are navigating difficult life transitions.

Assured believes that every child deserves to arrive at school feeling seen, safe, and supported.

Transportation is more than a logistical need — it's an equity issue. Without access to reliable, high-quality transportation, homeless and foster care students are denied not only an education but also the opportunity for stability, connection, and a brighter future.

By partnering with trusted, specialized providers like Assured Specialty Transportation, schools can fulfill their legal — and moral — obligation to these students. Because when we remove barriers, we open doors.