Rice Independent School District assists students experiencing homelessness with enrollment in school and gaining access to academic supplies and services to participate in and attend school daily. We are committed to ensuring that barriers are removed so that all students experiencing homelessness have the opportunity for academic success. Students experiencing homelessness have certain legal rights that may affect registration and transfer procedures.  RISD addresses issues related to enrollment and assists schools with homeless students’ needs.

• Homeless students

• Students living in temporary homes due to economic hardship (shelters, hotels, RVs, etc.)

• Students living with family members or friends (doubled-up) due to economic hardship or loss of housing

• Unaccompanied youth

• Free school meals

• School enrollment assistance

• Transportation to campuses

• School supplies

• Food pantries

• Shelters

• Churches

• Faith-based organizations that provide assistance to families

• 211 services

District Social Emotional Support Counselor and McKinney-Vento Liaison

Tara Podjenski

Email Tara Podjenski

• View 211 Texas

• View Benefits

• View Find Help

• View Food Pantries

• View Housing Insecurity & College

• View National Association for Homeless Children & Youth Program

• View Texas Education for Homeless Children & Youth Program

• View Texas Homeless Network