Homelessness exists in all types of communities in the United States and yes, it is happening here in Mason City.
Jamie Heard, the District Homeless Liaison for Mason City Community Schools, ensures all staff are trained to identify students suffering from homelessness.
“Students who lack secure housing are not able to focus on the academic tasks they are being asked to do because they are worried about where they will be going after school and sleeping tonight,” Heard said.
According to Heard, the number of homeless students has risen steadily since she became liaison in 2015 when 18 students were identified. In the 2023-24 school year, the district identified as many as 129 students as homeless.
The McKinney Vento Act is a federal law providing educational rights to youth who experience homelessness. It defines homelessness as “individuals who lack a fixed regular, and adequate nighttime residence.” This includes children living in emergency shelters, motels, cars, and those sharing housing by doubling up due to economic hardship. Heard says some students are forced to seek refuge by couch surfing. Her job is to make sure teachers and other staff are aware of the signs.
“I think it helps staff with knowing what to look for and how to help our students who may be experiencing homelessness. If we know who is struggling, we can offer services and support to help meet their needs.”
Research shows that every time a student changes schools they lose 4-6 months of academic progress, and even one school change during high school reduces the chance of graduation by 50%.
“The lowest graduation rate and highest dropout rate among any special population group are from homeless students,” Heard said.
Heard also coordinates with community agencies like the homeless shelters, housing agencies, food pantries, and other providers in town, as well as the Department of Education.
But that department, which oversees and regulates services for students impacted by homelessness, could see major changes soon. President-elect Donald Trump says he plans to “eliminate” the U.S. Department of Education once he is in office.
“The Department of Education provides oversight and regulation for a lot of different services for students, including students impacted by housing insecurity,” Heard said.
Heard’s main concern is that without federal oversight, schools will lack resources and guidance on how to best meet the needs of all students.
