At Building Changes, we recognize that schools and community-based organizations are often a lifeline to critical services, stability, and safety for the 40,000 students experiencing housing insecurity in Washington State. To build on our commitment to support these students, Building Changes, in partnership with the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), launched our Response to Student Homelessness Training Series in 2021. Our aim is to provide in-depth learning opportunities to school district homeless liaisons, school building staff, and community-based organizations so that they can better support students and families experiencing homelessness. We are thrilled by the response to the trainings we’ve completed in the first year and the reach we’ve had statewide:
• 37 out of 39 Washington counties represented
• 80+ community-based organizations participated
• 175 out of 295 school districts represented, including those in both urban and rural areas
We are offering seven different trainings, and each training focuses on a different aspect of student support—from Navigating the Housing System to an in-depth look at Diversion in Schools, and building School/Housing Community Partnerships. Participants have reported overwhelmingly positive feedback, indicating we’re making strides in helping to ensure students have the support they need to succeed.
Three more trainings are scheduled between now and the end of the year, including “Capturing Data for McKinney-Vento Storytelling” on November 16. Participants will learn how to use qualitative and quantitative data to tell the story of student services and outcomes. Visit our training page to learn more and access recordings of past trainings.
