File: JFC-R - Student Withdrawal from School/Dropouts

NOTE: Colorado school districts are required by law to adopt a regulation on this subject and the law contains some specific direction as to the content or language. This sample addresses the notification and timeline requirements and adds some additional suggestions that are not required by law. The district should consult with its own legal counsel to determine appropriate language that meets local circumstances and needs.

When a student is identified by the staff as a potential or immediate dropout, the following procedure is to be implemented:

1. The student and a school counselor will meet for the purpose of discussing the reason(s) for leaving school and the student´s plans for the future.

2. The counselor and the student´s teachers will meet to discuss the student´s present scholastic standing.

3. The student, his/her parents, guardian or legal custodian, the counselor and the principal or designee will review all pertinent information and give their recommendations.

If, after the above procedure has been followed, the student remains firm on his/her intention to leave school, a final meeting will be scheduled between the student and the counselor to discuss those educational and occupational alternatives available to the student. The discussion will include, but not be necessarily limited to, the following subjects: (1) equivalency diploma; (2) adult education classes; (3) correspondence courses; and (4) available skill training programs. In addition, work-study programs will be explored.

When the student has been a dropout for 10 school days, an attempt shall be made by the school counselor to meet with the student and the student´s parent(s)/legal guardian/custodian for a re-evaluation of the student´s decision to leave school, with the option offered to return to school at this time as a student in good standing, depending upon the student´s willingness to make up missed scholastic assignments.

When a student has been a dropout for 15 school days, the principal or designee shall send a written notice to the student´s parent(s)/legal guardian/custodian. At a minimum, the written notice shall include notification of the student´s dropout status and an explanation of the educational alternatives available to assist the student in re-engaging in school. Such written notice shall be sent even if the student is not subject to the compulsory attendance laws, i.e. those students 17 years of age or older. The written notice may also include, but not be limited to, an encouragement that the student return to school; an explanation of the long-term ramifications to the student of dropping out of school; and the availability of services for at-risk students, such as counseling services, drug or alcohol addiction treatment programs, and family preservation services. The written notice shall be sent within five school days after the student has been a dropout for 15 school days.

All efforts possible will be extended in an attempt to retain students in school and assist them in earning a high school diploma.

(Adoption date)

[Revised June 2009]