In New Mexico, you can generally stop attending high school once you turn 18 years old. This age marks the end of compulsory school attendance for most individuals in the state.
Understanding New Mexico's Compulsory Education Law
New Mexico law mandates that a school-age person must attend public school, private school, home school, or a state institution until they are at least eighteen years of age. This ensures that students receive a comprehensive education up to a certain point, or until they meet specific educational milestones.
Exceptions to Compulsory Attendance
While 18 is the general age for ending compulsory attendance, there are specific circumstances under which an individual may cease attendance earlier. These exceptions are critical for understanding the flexibility within the state's education laws:
- High School Graduation: If a student graduates from high school before reaching 18 years of age, their compulsory attendance requirement is fulfilled.
- High School Equivalency: Obtaining a high school equivalency credential, such as a General Educational Development (GED) certificate, also satisfies the attendance requirement, regardless of the student's age.
Summary of Conditions for Ending Compulsory School Attendance
The following table summarizes the primary conditions under which a student is no longer required to attend school in New Mexico:
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Age Requirement | The student reaches at least 18 years of age. |
| Graduation | The student successfully graduates from high school, irrespective of their age. |
| Equivalency Credential | The student obtains a recognized high school equivalency credential (e.g., GED), which demonstrates academic proficiency equivalent to a high school diploma, regardless of their age. |
For detailed information on New Mexico's compulsory school attendance laws, you can refer to the official state statutes, such as New Mexico Statutes Annotated (NMSA) 1978, Section 22-12-2, which governs compulsory school attendance. Further details can often be found on the New Mexico Legislature website.
