Where do I go to school when I enter placement?

All efforts should be made to help you stay in the school you were in before placement. If you are placed in a temporary shelter, you have a right to attend your home school. If your placement is in a new school district, you have a right to go to school in the district where your placement is located. Even if there is a school on the grounds of your placement, most youth should attend their neighborhood public school.

You may be placed in a school that is not the public school for your address (like an on-grounds or alternative school) if: (1) you are in special education and your Individualized Education Plan says you should go to a different school,(2) you were transferred to an alternative school after having a hearing or (3) the court says you should go to a specific school. If you attend a Charter School, you may be attending school other than your neighborhood school.

What documents will I need to enroll in school?

1. Proof of your date of birth
2. Immunization record or assurance from former school district or doctor that immunizations are up to date and are being sent
3. Proof of residency (this can be a letter from your caretaker or case manager)
4. Parent Registration Form (this form can be filled out by your case manager)

Does the school need to know that I am in placement and why?

NO. The school does not need to know that you are in care or why you are in care.

How long should it take for me to be enrolled?
It should take no more than five days once you have submitted all of your documents.

What do I do if I am having trouble with enrollment?

Contact your caseworker and lawyer. You should also call Education Law Center at 215-238-6970 or online at www.elc-pa.org. They can help you if you live anywhere in Pennsylvania.

What if I am being asked (or told) to leave my school?

If you are suspended, expelled, moved to an alternative school, or placed in special education, you have rights. You may be entitled to a hearing, to a lawyer, or to an appeal depending on the situation. For more information, please contact a lawyer at Education Law Center at 215-238-6970.

Can I get back in school after dropping out?

You have a right to enroll or re-enroll at a public school until you are 21 or you graduate from high school. You can also get a General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or attend an alternative high school program. It is never too late to further your education.

Last updated: Summer 2007