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HB 4787 - Modifies the school age law beginning with this years (09-10) 6th graders (11 years old). These student may not drop out of school until 18. There are exceptions.

High schoolers couldn't drop out of school until age 18 unless they have a their parent's OK, under a bill that passed the House today, 71-37.

Gov. Jennifer GRANHOLM has asked the legislature to reset the dropout age from 16 to 18 in at least two State of the State messages. However, the angle of still allowing a student to leave school if a parent signed off was added in the House Education Committee (See "Parental Rights Enters Dropout Debate," 02/12/09).

In fact, without the change that was made in committee, it's quite possible that the measure wouldn't have passed today, or even made it to the floor. The idea of simply increasing the dropout rate is an issue upon which the education community seems to be divided.

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18-Year-Old Students and the Law
"Do Not Send My Report Card to My Parents…"
An 18-year-old student walks in your office and demands, “do not send my report cards or other records to my parents.” Meanwhile, the student lives with his or her parent/guardian, who claims the student as a “dependent” for federal income tax purposes, and wishes to continue receiving educational records regarding the student. School officials should be aware of the applicable legal standards which address such situations. Moreover, while it is not necessary to “advertise” the rights of the 18-year-old student, appropriate procedures and/or policy can provide consistent guidance.