DE HB244

Increases compulsory school attendance age requirement from 16 to 18 years old, phased in over two years (age 17 by January 1, 2013; age 18 by January 1, 2014).

Exempts children who have graduated from high school, are at least 16 and lawfully employed with superintendent approval, or obtain a waiver based on an alternative learning plan.

Alternative learning plans must include age-appropriate academic content, be developed with input from the child, school counselor, principal, and parent/guardian, and be subject to superintendent and board approval with State Board of Education appeal rights.

Preserves exemption for children with documented medical conditions upon request of parent or guardian with written support from a physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, or neurologist.

Adds charter schools to compulsory attendance requirements alongside public schools and district enrollment choice program options.