NYC considers reducing shelter-based education staff due to increase in migrant and homeless population

A vital shelter program in New York City that connects migrant families and homeless children to education services is facing a funding crisis, putting the education of tens of thousands of students at risk. The program, which employs 100 shelter-based coordinators, is set to lose its funding in June unless lawmakers intervene.

Advocates for Children, a nonprofit organization, highlighted the importance of these coordinators in finding suitable schools and programs for families, addressing attendance barriers, and organizing transportation for students. With over 40,800 students experiencing homelessness last school year, the need for these coordinators has never been greater.

The coordinators have played a crucial role in helping families navigate enrollment delays, school disruptions, and other challenges resulting from the city’s family shelter-limit policy. They have also provided essential support such as organizing donations, scheduling vaccine appointments, and offering English classes for parents.

One Brooklyn mom, Anzhela Mordyga, praised the coordinator for helping her enroll her son in classes and after-school programs, enabling her to work and eventually move out of the shelter. Without the coordinator’s assistance, Mordyga admitted she would be lost.

Despite the positive impact of the program, it faces a $12.3 million budget shortfall, with uncertainty surrounding its future funding. The City Council has called for permanent funding for all 100 positions, emphasizing the critical role these coordinators play in supporting students in temporary housing.

As the deadline for funding approaches, the fate of the shelter program hangs in the balance, leaving families and students in a state of uncertainty. The Education Department has acknowledged the importance of the coordinators but has yet to commit to securing their funding beyond the current fiscal year.