5 yr old not enrolled in kindergarten?

Question

Does anyone know what the law is with this? Does it vary state to state or is it a federal law?

The reason I ask is because we were duped by my husband’s ex into believing that his 5 yr old daughter was starting school this past week. We called to check on her first day of school to find out her mother never even enrolled her. She decided taking a trip to NY was more important. We do not live in the area but want to know what we can do about this legally, if anything at all.

Sadly, this little girl is already significantly behind and putting off her enrollment in school is just absolutely sad to us! My husband is livid and tried speaking to her mother who seemed to have every excuse in the book as to why it wasn’t a big deal.

We live in the state of FL. Does anyone know anything in regards to this?? Legally or not?

Thanks for your help!

Answer 1

This is a state to state law. Also, it could vary by school district as well. I lived previously in PA and kids were not allowed to start kindergarten unless they were 5 by Sept. 1st. The surrounding districts were different. Now in MD I was told by the school district that the kids have to be 5 by Sept 30th.

Maybe you could file for partial custody and have her attend school where you two live. If the mother is irresponsible the father has to do what is best for the child. Is Pre-K an option for your step-daughter. Also, 5 is not that old. My daughter went to 2 years of Pre-K and started kindergarten at 6. She did wonderfully. I wish you luck with this. i know how hard it is to deal w/an irrational parent. (my daughters father is horrible to deal with)

Answer 2

Sorry, but what kind of mom takes a trip to NY instead of enrolling her kid in school?  Sounds like you and your hubby have a much bigger issue here.  If he has 50/50 custody, he is supposed to be involved in the major decisions for her- like education.  How is she taking a vacation if she has no job?  I think it sounds like some legal action may be necessary if she is that far behind.  The mom doesn't seem to be taking care of her properly.  

Answer 3

How long has school been going on? If it's only been a week, you can enroll her still. Even if she is behind, she can repeat the year next year, but it would be good to get at least some learning in. I am sorry that happened. I hope it all works out.  

Answer 4

In the state of florida - it is not legally required until age 6.

Here's a link to some more information on the requirements of starting kindergarten.

In Florida, students must enroll in school if they are 6 or will attain the age of 6 by February 1 of the school year. However, if you wait until your child is 6 to begin school and you do not show evidence that he has completed kindergarten in a public or nonpublic school, in some school districts your child will be placed in kindergarten. Publicly funded prekindergarten is available to children ages 4 to 6 who qualify for federal poverty programs