Every state requires within a certain age range to obtain some type of a formal education, whether it is home school, public, private, or religious institutions. State compulsory education laws are different from truancy laws (which are intended to make sure students attend class) because they are focused on making sure parents enroll their children in school. Parents who fail to do so, or allow the chronic truancy of their children, often face administrative sanctions through the school district before the case is referred to the police. While home schooling is accepted in every state, parents are required to follow state curriculum guidelines.
Nebraska Compulsory Education Laws at a Glance
The state of Nebraska requires children between seven and 16 to attend school, with a few exceptions. For instance, children who graduate from high school early or who are at least 14, employed, have completed the eight grade, and are required to work in order to support their families are exempt. Parents who fail to comply with Nebraska's compulsory school attendance law may be charged with a Class III misdemeanor, which carries a penalty of up to three months in jail or a fine of up to $500 (or both).
Learn more about compulsory education laws in Nebraska, including exemptions, in the following chart.
| Code Section | 79-201, et seq.; 43-2007 |
| Age at Which School Attendance is Required | Between 7 and 16 |
| Exceptions to Attendance Requirements | Child has graduated high school; child 14 is employed and has completed 8th grade and earnings are necessary for his support or dependents; child is physically/mentally incapacitated; illness or severe weather conditions make attendance impossible |
| Home School Provisions | Home school valid if complies with §§79-1601 through 79-1607; subject to and governed by the provisions of the general school laws of the state so far as the same apply to grades, qualifications, and certification of teachers and promotion of pupils; adequate supplies and equipment, course of study substantially same as given in the public schools where children would have attended |
| Penalties on Parents for Noncompliance | Class III misdemeanor |
Note: State laws are always subject to change at any time, usually through the enactment of newly signed legislation but sometimes through the decisions of higher courts or other means. You may want to contact a Nebraska education law attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
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Nebraska Compulsory Education Law: Related Resources
