School-Age Parent Program

Definition
A school-age parent is any person under the age of 21 who is not a high school graduate and is a parent, an expectant parent or a person who has been pregnant within the immediately preceding 120 (calendar) days. School districts are required by state law to make program modifications available to school-age parents, both mothers and fathers, that will allow them to continue their education. State law also prohibits public schools from denying admission to or participation in any curricular, extracurricular, pupil services, recreational or other program or activity based upon pregnancy, or marital or parental status.

Any school board, CESA, or consortium of districts may establish a program for school-age parents and be eligible to receive state categorical aid to help offset some of the additional costs of serving school-age parents. All requirements and guidelines within Chapter PI 19, Education for School-Age Parents, must be met in order for a district to be eligible for categorical aid. Special instruction and transportation costs are eligible for reimbursement. School districts submit annual budget and claim reports for school-age parent instruction and services via the Special Education Fiscal Report (PI 1505-SE).

Instruction and Services for School-Age Parents is a question and answer bulletin that includes all relevant state statutes, Chapter PI 19, and brief descriptions of community-based services for teen parents. Another available resource is Wisconsin Teen Parent Resources.

For questions about this information, contact Nic T. Dibble (608) 266-0963

Last updated on 2/22/2008 8:00:40 AM