First-of-its-kind conference brings hope and resources to homeless and foster youth

Mary Agnes DeCicco, Bucks IU program director of federal and nonpublic programs, welcomes attendees to this first regional conference for ECYEH.

In a bustling conference hall, over 160 dedicated professionals gathered for an event with a powerful purpose: ensuring children experiencing homelessness and foster care receive the education and support they deserve. It was the first regional conference for Pennsylvania’s Region 8 Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness (ECYEH), and for many attendees, it was more than just a learning experience—it was a call to action.

Hosted by the Bucks County Intermediate Unit (Bucks IU), the event centered on the McKinney-Vento Homelessness Assistance Act, which aims to protect the rights and stability of students facing housing insecurity. But beyond the legislation and policies, the conference spotlighted the personal stories of those on the front lines and the children they support.

Over one and a half days, professionals from Bucks, Delaware, Lehigh, Montgomery and Northampton counties shared their experiences, learned new strategies and heard powerful stories of resilience.

“The Bucks IU was honored to facilitate this first-of-its-kind conference for our region, supporting the McKinney-Vento Act and its mission,” said Dr. Mary Agnes DeCicco, Bucks IU program director of federal and nonpublic programs. “The overwhelming response and attendance are a testament to a collective commitment to addressing and alleviating the challenges faced by children and families experiencing homelessness.”

The event’s three keynote speakers didn’t just talk about statistics or policy — they shared personal stories of overcoming adversity.

Dr. Richard Antoine White, known as “RAW Tuba,” kicked things off with a keynote that struck a chord with everyone in the room. He spoke about the power of choices, the hardships he faced growing up and how the paths we take shape our lives. His journey from homelessness to becoming a successful musician was a reminder that with the right support, no path is impossible. Dana Bowser, director of equitable learning and support for the Chester Upland School District, was particularly moved by his speech: “My best takeaway was from the keynote speaker RAW Tuba. I think he was phenomenal for the insight he gave regarding his personal experiences, what he went through, and how that impacted his career and trajectory of his life today.”

Joining Dr. White on the stage was Mills Rodgers, who urged attendees to keep dreaming big and fighting for equity in education, and Angela Sanchez, who bravely shared her own experience of homelessness. She showed everyone that with the right support, even the most challenging circumstances don’t have to define a child’s future. Her journey from homelessness to academic success was a moving reminder of what’s at stake.

The conference wasn’t just about listening — it was also about participating. Attendees chose from a series of breakout sessions that focused on different areas of interest, providing hands-on tools and strategies. Janesca Martin, a school counselor and homeless/foster care liaison at Chester Community Charter School, found the session on foster care especially valuable. “The breakout session that focused on supporting foster care students was beneficial to me. I was impacted by how Child, Youth, and School Services can come up with case worker styles on handling certain situations related to foster care students,” she shared.

Beyond the formal sessions, the conference also highlighted the everyday realities these professionals face and the direct impact their work has on students. Tammy Wood-Moghal, supervisor of pupil personnel services at Bucks County Technical High School, remarked, “Attending this conference has profoundly deepened our understanding of the McKinney-Vento Act and its impact on children in foster care. The sessions provided crucial insights and actionable strategies that empower us to more effectively support these vulnerable students, ensuring they receive the stability and resources necessary to thrive academically and personally.”

One especially poignant moment came when attendees were given 750 backpacks filled with school supplies to bring back to their schools and programs. These backpacks were more than just a thoughtful gesture — they symbolized the immediate, tangible support children in need will receive thanks to the efforts of the conference participants. Federal funding from ECYEH provided these resources, immediately supporting the students served by the program. In the 2021-22 school year, over 40,000 children in Pennsylvania were identified as experiencing homelessness, and moments like this help turn awareness into action.

The impact of the conference went beyond the information shared — it inspired and energized those who attended, reminding them why their work is so important. As Yarilis Ruiz, a foster home liaison in the Upper Darby School District, noted, “What has stuck with me was how we need to constantly remind ourselves of the impact we have on students. All the work we put in is beneficial in some way, shape, or form — nothing we do is too small.”

For many, this first-of-its-kind conference felt like the beginning of something bigger — a chance to create lasting change in how homeless and foster care students are supported across southeastern Pennsylvania. Bucks IU hopes to host another conference in the future, continuing to provide a space for educators, liaisons and advocates to come together, share their stories and inspire each other to keep moving forward.

As the conference came to a close, the sense of purpose and determination in the room was palpable. The educators, liaisons and advocates left with new tools, fresh perspectives and a renewed commitment to their mission: ensuring every child, no matter their circumstances, has a chance to succeed.