Can you go to jail for truancy in Virginia?

Parents may face criminal charges if they intentionally fail to meet their legal obligation to send their children to attend school. If found guilty of the misdemeanor, the parents could face fines and even jail time for repeat offenses. (Va. Code §§ 18.2-11, 18.2-371, 22.1-258, 22.1-262, 22.1-263 (2019).)

Can parents go to jail for child missing school in Virginia?

Under Virginia’s “compulsory education” laws, children between the ages of 5 and 18 must attend school until they graduate. And parents who don’t make their kids go to school might be fined or even sent to jail.

Can a 17 year old drop out of school in Virginia?

Virginians may legally drop out of high school once they turn 18. Students who are 16 or 17 may also leave regular school, but only after they’ve had a meeting with their parents and the principal to set up an individual student alternative education plan.

Is it illegal to not go to school in Virginia?

Virginia compulsory education laws require children between five and 18 to attend school, while non-compliance is charged as a Class 3 misdemeanor.

How many days of school can you miss in a year Virginia?

Fifteen Consecutive Absences Any student who is absent from school for 15 consecutive days will be officially withdrawn from school, per the compulsory attendance expectations noted in the Virginia Code 22.1-254.

How many absences are allowed in a school year VA?

What are the truancy laws in Virginia?

Children between six and 16 who are not at school during a normal school day — provided they are not at home with an illness or otherwise excused — are considered truant. Truant children may be placed in the temporary custody of the police and may be processed in juvenile court.

Are kids required to attend school in Virginia?

Basics of Virginia Compulsory Education Laws Virginia compulsory education laws require children between five and 18 to attend school, while non-compliance is charged as a Class 3 misdemeanor.

What is classed as exceptional circumstances for school leave?

Exceptional leave MAY be: Grandparent or other close relative is seriously ill – and you must leave in an emergency. Significant trauma in the family recently and a holiday will benefit the child – this must be backed up by a doctor’s letter.

What is compulsory attendance in Virginia?

In Virginia, children aged 5 through 17 are required to attend school, but the term “school” does not necessarily mean an institution. Home instruction and approved tutoring are deemed as complying with the Compulsory Attendance Code.

How do I generate a compulsory school attendance report?

Pupils » Article 1. Compulsory School Attendance » § 22.1-254. Compulsory attendance required; excuses and waivers; alternative education program attendance; exemptions from article Creating a Report: Check the sections you’d like to appear in the report, then use the “Create Report” button at the bottom of the page to generate your report.

When to send a copy of the compulsory school attendance law?

Within one calendar month of the opening of school, each school board shall send to the parents or guardian of each student enrolled in the division a copy of the compulsory school attendance law and the enforcement procedures and policies established by the school board. I. The provisions of this article shall not apply to: 1.

Who is subject to compulsory attendance law?

Emancipated and adjudicated minors are subject to the compulsory attendance law, unless released by the local school board. In alternative education and granted an ISAEP.