Homelessness often is accompanied by poverty, stress, and instability. As a result, children and youth in homeless situations frequently must overcome many educational challenges. The McKinney-Vento Act requires local educational agencies (LEAs, hereafter "school districts") to identify children and youth experiencing homelessness, and connect them with educational and other needed supports. The Act also requires every school district to designate an appropriate staff person, known as the local homeless education liaison, (hereafter "local liaison"), who is able to carry out the duties of the position as described in the law. A local liaison who has the knowledge, skills, time, and authority to carry out the position is key to ensuring that children and youth experiencing homelessness receive all protections and services necessary for them to succeed in school. This brief will help school district administrators understand the duties of the local liaison, select a local liaison who is able to perform effectively in the position, and provide the local liaison with the support needed to fulfill the responsibilities of the role.