Just ahead of Valentine’s Day, Longview ISD hosted its McKinney-Vento Annual Community Partner Valentine’s Training Luncheon, bringing together school counselors, Communities In Schools, and local community partners.
The board room was decorated in red, white, and pink for the occasion, and staff enjoyed lunch while focusing on an important goal: strengthening support systems for students and families.
What Is McKinney-Vento?
The McKinney-Vento program is a federal initiative designed to support students and families experiencing housing instability. This can include families who are doubled up with others, staying in hotels, or temporarily living in unstable housing situations.
The program helps ensure students can stay connected to school, receive needed services, and continue learning without added barriers.
What Happened During the Luncheon?
During the training luncheon, community partners were invited to speak directly with Longview ISD staff and share information about services available to families.
The luncheon served as both a celebration and a practical training opportunity, helping staff better understand what resources exist in the community and how to connect families to those supports quickly.
Why This Matters
For families experiencing housing instability, support often depends on whether someone knows where to start.
By bringing district staff and community partners together in one room, Longview ISD strengthens communication, builds relationships, and ensures that campus teams have the information they need to support students efficiently and confidently.
The training also reinforces a key message: students succeed best when schools and community organizations work together.
Longview ISD is grateful for every counselor, support team member, and community partner who helps meet student needs — not just during designated appreciation weeks, but every day.