Report by Schoolhouse Washington

Nearly half are Grade 5 or younger

School districts across the state of Washington identified 40,934 students in K-12 schools as having experienced homelessness during the 2016-17 academic year, a 3.2 percent increase over the previous year and more than double the number from just nine years ago.

Student homelessness data is collected by individual school districts, gathered by the state Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction and reported to the public. Schoolhouse Washington examined the data and developed this summary analysis. It provides a snapshot of student homelessness in our state’s K-12 schools, the demographics of students experiencing homelessness and how they are faring academically.

How many students in K-12 schools are experiencing homelessness?
The number of students experiencing homelessness is the highest it ever has been since the state began tracking the data.

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What does student homelessness in Washington look like?
Nearly half of students experiencing homelessness are Grade 5 or younger.
Many students experiencing homelessness are not living with a parent or guardian.
Students experiencing homelessness have lower graduation rates.
Homelessness disproportionately impacts students of color.
Students experiencing homelessness are suspended or expelled more often.

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