In 1984, the Salt Lake City (Utah) school district was one of the first in the nation to set up a public school classroom in a homeless shelter. This book describes one teacher's experiences teaching kindergarten through sixth grade in this "school with no name." Through poignant stories, the book illustrates some lessons learned over 6 years, including the following: (1) daily journal writing and jam sessions act as therapy for children; (2) a point system for completing assignments and treating peers respectfully is beneficial; (3) many children have difficulty with rules because they lack structure in their own families; (4) children often assume adult responsibilities, such as protecting parents with drug problems; (5) dealing with loss is common for homeless children, who may move 7 to 8 times in 1 year; (6) building linkages to parents and stressing love of learning over academics has greater impact; (7) some parents come to school with their children to regain their lost childhood; (8) parents often do not emphasize children's education because it does not immediately help the family; (9) it is necessary to abandon stereotypes to connect with shelter residents; (10) substance abuse is one of the most critical issues contributing to homelessness; (11) we cannot impose help on children--we can only teach, support, love, and offer choices; and (12) short-term one-time efforts do not help--children need long-term relationships and family and educational experiences. The book concludes by noting that deprivation of experience, opportunity, and self through lack of love and positive or stable experience is the real tragedy of poverty and homelessness. Suggestions for community service from the local to international level complete the book. (KDFB)