Legal School Dropout Age

Summary

In Michigan, students can legally drop out of school at age 16 with parental consent. However, truancy diversion agreements can complicate the situation. Its advisable to consult an education law attorney to understand the potential legal repercussions and explore options for disputing truancy claims. Documenting health issues that prevent school attendance can be beneficial.

Full Conversation

I'm trying to find out whether or not it is legal for a 16 year old in Monroe Public Schools Michigan to drop out of school with a parent's written permission
In Michigan:
- The compulsory school attendance law requires students to attend school until they are at least *.
- After turning *, a student may drop out with written parental consent.
- However, dropping out can have serious long-term consequences, so it should be considered carefully.
So I withdrew my son from the public school system, he was having anxiety and panic attacks with the idea of entering the building or any virtual Zoom classes as to him it feels like it is still in person. Still wanting him to educate at some point with a comfortable environment for him. Whether it is GED diploma or trade school, we would like to do our best at helping him to be successful as an adult. After withdrawing several days went by before it was actually in place and we received truancy diversion letters. Never have been in trouble before so went in to the situation, they called it a diversion and signed an agreement to attend summer sessions. We attempted success Virtual Academy in Monroe, but they also require some in person class time. We attempted to go to different days and my son was unable to bring himself to go in, going into a panic attack. During the diversion meeting it was stated that he could choose not to do this and he would have to stand in front of a judge, that it was his choice. Since the diversion meeting and my son's inability to enter the building, he is unable to complete this schooling. I have reached out to several establishments trying to find a virtual cost free summer session which requires no in person and I am unable to find those resources. So I am now faced with the truancy and possibly legal ramifications to myself and my son. I'm now wondering if there is any way to get out from under this diversion agreement, since I had given permission for him to drop school at this time? I have received a letter stating I have to appear in the defendant box it says truancy. As I have stated I have never been in any kind of troubles before so I am very uncertain as to how to move forward. Any and all advice appreciated thank you
It's a complex situation, Debbie. You might want to consult with an attorney who specializes in education law. They could help clarify whether you can withdraw from the diversion agreement, and how to handle the truancy issue. Generally:
- You can dispute the truancy claim in court.
- You might be able to argue that your son's health issues prevent him from attending school.
- Documenting his health problems could be beneficial.
Remember, this advice is general in nature.
For my understanding, I should not nor my son be in any legal trouble for dropping out of school at the age of * with my permission? I'm just wondering if there is a gray area that because I am the parent I should not be charged with anything? I actually thought I had this answer prior to doing the unenrollment. But then when we received notice to meet with the truancy person at the courthouse for the diversion I was left with so many unanswered questions.
Hello Debbie,
In Michigan, your son can legally drop out of school at * with parental consent. However, the truancy diversion agreement you signed could complicate things. It's best to consult an education law attorney. They can help clarify your situation and advise on potential legal repercussions.
Thank you so much for your time, I am grateful that you do this for people. If you are spiritual in any sense of the form, please keep us in your thoughts. Have a lovely day!
You're welcome, Debbie. I'm glad I could provide some assistance. While I can't provide personal spiritual support, know that you and your son are definitely in our thoughts. Don't hesitate to reach out if you need more help. Take care!