AUGUSTA - Rep. Michael Brennan, D-Portland, has been appointed to serve on the Homeless Student Workgroup established by the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL). The workgroup provides an opportunity for collaboration among legislators from across the country to develop policies and funding sources to assist students who are homeless.
Brennan is a fellow in NCSL's educational finance program and sees this new appointment as a way to expand on that work. Last year, 4,400 students were identified in Maine as being homeless almost double the number from previous years. This year, the Maine Legislature allocated $2 million to assist homeless students and their families, with more funding needed in the near future to provide services for Maine's unhoused population.
"Student homelessness in Maine continues to increase, and we must identify additional resources to help solve this problem," said Brennan. "Homeless students have a high school graduation rate that is significantly lower than the overall student population. We are committed to doing more in this upcoming legislative session to make sure our most vulnerable students are getting the support they need."
The workgroup will conclude its work this fall.
Brennan is serving his third consecutive term in the Maine House, having previously served four terms in the House and three in the Senate. He represents House District 115, which includes a portion of Portland and serves as House chair of the Legislature's Education and Cultural Affairs Committee.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Brennan], c. 305-965-2744