Can I pull my daughter out of Kindergarden?

Question

I live in PA where school doesn't legally begin until age 8, and with that kindergarden is not mandatory. We are in the process of relocation and when I talked to the school about taking the next couple Fridays off they told me if she went over 10 days they would have to send the warning letter and future absences could result in a court appearance, She had 6 days for a edicational trip, 2 for sick and 1 for the relocation. Only 1 was considered unexcused and you are allowed up to 20 before being held according to the handbook and that is a general quide for the grades. This is kindergarden and there is no holding back because I dont have to enroll her until she is 8 and they let you test for level up to 3rd grade. I am considering just pulling her out at the end of the month and she will only miss the final 20 school days of the year. Does anyone know if I have to enroll her into the new school, also located in PA?

Answer 1

In Texas kindergarten is not required either.  However, once a child is enrolled in kindergarten the parents are legally obligated to keep them enrolled in kindergarten.  It sounds like it may be the same in PA which is why the school system is threatening a court appearance.  If you can get her enrolled in another school that would be great.  Plus, she would have the opportunity to make some new friends prior to summer and 1st grade.

Answer 2

Most schools get a subsidy based on the number of children in the classes...the more seats that are filled, the more money they will get. Don't worry. They can't legally do anything since it is not mandatory that you keep your child in kindergarten.

Answer 3

i guess. but you have to home school her!!! Have patients grasshopper! Is she having trouble with something or someone? I think that homeschool is unhealthy for the child! This kid in my class was homeschooled all his life up until this year!(7th grade) He's kinda weird and messed up! But, it's hard to just jump back in! If she has alot of friends in her class or school, you may want to think a bit more about your situation! If not she might just need a clean start! I always dreaded being homeschooled and talked my mom out of it! But, it will take a while for her to figure out how school works. Like switching classes, bathroom passes, friends, when to talk, electives, and think of all the experences she would miss!!! Like feild trips!!! I know that new kid got picked on alot, but he was a bully and cused people out!!! before you pull her out think of what she will be missing!

Answer 4

The impetuous for this rule is that although voluntary, you must stay enrolled due to others wanting in the program.  Some parents are actually turned away because classes are full.  If you sign up to take a spot, you have to keep your end of the bargain by following enrollment guidelines.  This is it in a nutshell.  You could try to fight this just like you might other contractual agreements (change of circumstance, illness, family problems etc.) This isn't personal, or maybe even fair, its just a rule to keep parents "honest" in what they are offering within facility/teaching resources provided.  Its just not a "take it or leave it" decision once you are enrolled.  I would gather your reasons for this, put this in writing, and bring this forward.  The court appearance is to balance out neglect, not freedom of choice.  If your intent is pure, you will be fine.

Answer 5

no

Answer 6

If you choose to homeschool there is nothing wrong with that. the only problem is in society, public schools, people are taught that it is okay to be mean. when a homeschooled kid goes back into a public school that gives those children a new source of entertainment. Kids are creul these days and the only way to ensure that your child isn't one of the ill mannered from public schools is to homeschool. It is sad that people can say you were homeschooled so that makes you a freak, when they have taken the time to know the person. I feel sorry for people who are taught and allowed to be that way. You do have to consider that in the future you will not have the option to choose. After a certain age if you send them to public school you can't just say oh she missed 9 days I think I will pull you out of school until next year..... That would not be possible. Now if you had a valid reason for wanting to change things I could see it but not something like this.

Answer 7

If they are threatening you with possible court appearances, then it leads me to think that there may be a law requiring that your daughter be enrolled prior to age 8.  I don't live in PA however.  

Call  here to inquire what the laws are.

School Services Unit

       Office of Elementary and Secondary Education

       Pennsylvania Department of Education

       333 Market Street

       Harrisburg, PA  17126-0333

       Phone:  [phone]

Answer 8

Its too late to pull out now you have to do that right before the pregnancy!