Number Of Homeless Students Increasing In St. Cloud

(KNSI) – The District 742 School Board received an update at its meeting Wednesday on transitional educational services, which cater to homeless students.

Federal law requires school districts to provide enrollment to transient students, defined as those living in a temporary, inadequate space, including at a friend’s or relative’s home. The number is expected to top 700 this year, according to Superintendent Dr. Laurie Putnam.

“Over the last five or six years, the number has been steadily rising. Certainly, we know that the economy is a struggle coming out of the pandemic. We, of course, were hoping for fewer students who are living in those unfortunate circumstances. However, we are prepared to support them.”

One challenge, however, is busing. Even if the student’s situation is temporary, it stays on the books for a year, so, for the full school year, transportation must be guaranteed to transitional students. That includes those who have been placed in foster care in cities like Annandale, Cold Spring, Monticello, Sartell, and Sauk Rapids. Up to 15% of the homeless students may have temporary arrangements outside of District 742.

The board also heard about the importance of play in kindergarten, which isn’t always fun and games. The district has been studying it since 2020, which shows kids plan and use critical thinking to create imaginary worlds. All of that contributes to a well-rounded student as they progress to high school and beyond.

Kindergarten is the only grade where there is designated play time, and the update was interactive for members and administration officials in attendance. Superintendent Laurie Putnam says she wanted to swap the bin of toys she received with others.

“I got little animals and food items. There were wooden blocks that I could string together but I was really jealous of my neighbor. Board Chair [Shannon] Haws got this beautiful bucket of buttons and these really neat scoops.”

The district is trying to partner with outside organizations to get transient students into permanent housing accommodations. More information on the Transitional Education Services Program can be found here.

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