Can my parents drop me out of high school?

Can my parents force me to drop out of high school?

• My parents refuse to let me go to high school. They don't think I'll be able to handle bullies, they think no school will take me, they don't believe they'll let a 16 year old be in 9th grade, they don't see the importance in finishing high school, and other issues. I want to finish school though. I refuse to get a GED. My expectations in life revolve about graduating and I refuse to be a drop-out. They've said I'll need to go with a relative if I want to try and register for a school. I think they're just saying that though. They've said they'll wait however long for me to get a GED, but I need to forget about school.

• Answer:

  This depends on where you live and why you would be in 9th grade at 16. You might be required to attend alternative school to 'catch up' on classes. If you put your mind to it, you could make it through to finish in regular classes your final year or two. Please do not give up, your parents cannot force you to drop out. Call the school directly, make an appointment to see the counselor and/or principal. Or call the child protective service CPS or DHS for your area. You can request a social worker be assigned to you and your welfare. It will not cost you a penny, and as for forcing you to live elsewhere, a court could decide that. I am truly sorry for your troubles. Good luck.