FL H0499

Raises compulsory school attendance age from 16 to 18 years old for all Florida children, requiring attendance until age 18 unless a student files a formal declaration of intent to terminate enrollment with parental signature.

Requires school districts to notify parents that terminating their child's school enrollment results in forfeiture of any state financial assistance program benefits received for that child.

Removes discretionary authority allowing students under age 18 to take the high school equivalency examination, limiting it to candidates at least 18 years old except in extraordinary circumstances as defined by district school board rules.

Requires school districts to conduct exit interviews with students seeking to terminate enrollment, during which counselors must inform students of alternative educational options including adult education and high school equivalency exam preparation.

Takes effect July 1, 2017.