What are Iowa's school attendance age requirements and withdrawal age?

Full question:

What are the school attendance requirements in Iowa? Minimum age and age to withdraw.

  • Category: Education
  • Subcategory: Compulsory Education
  • Date:
  • State: Iowa

Answer:

In Iowa, children ages six to sixteen must attend school. Specifically, a child who turns six by September 15 is required to attend school until they turn sixteen. However, if a child enrolled in school turns sixteen after September 15, they must continue attending school until the end of that school year.

Additionally, a child who turns five by September 15 and is enrolled in school is also considered of compulsory attendance age unless their parent or guardian submits a written notice to withdraw them. Furthermore, a child who turns four by September 15 and is enrolled in a statewide preschool program is also subject to compulsory attendance unless the parent or guardian provides written notice to withdraw them from the program.

For reference, see Iowa Code § 299.1A.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

In Iowa, the law mandates that children between the ages of six and sixteen must attend school. This requirement applies to any child who turns six by September 15. Parents or guardians can withdraw younger children from school with written notice, but those aged six to sixteen must remain enrolled until they turn sixteen or complete the school year if they turn sixteen after September 15. This is outlined in Iowa Code § 299.1A.