How to Withdraw a Student
If a family is moving and their child will no longer attend their current campus, it is important to officially withdraw the student rather than just stop attending school.
If a student is not officially withdrawn, the school or district may continue to collect unexcused absences and file with the local truancy court. Please note that school personnel will not ask about citizenship status when you withdraw your child from a Texas public school.
Steps to Withdraw a Student
1.
Make sure the person withdrawing the student is listed as the child’s legal guardian.
2.
A legal guardian brings a photo ID to the campus front office and tells them that the student needs to be withdrawn.
3.
Fill out the withdrawal form. It will ask for basic information (name, address) and where the student will next attend school.
Checklist - Before Withdrawing from the Current School
Ask the school to provide the family of their child’s important school records.
The student’s new school will use these records to make sure they are placed in the correct grade and classes.*
- Report cards or transcript
- Attendance records
- Home Language Survey (HLS)
- Language proficiency scores/notes (LPAC)
- Individualized Education Program (IEP) plan
- STAAR scores
- 504 plan
- Proof of academic placements such as Gifted and Talented (GT)
- Immunization records
*New schools can request electronic copies of the student’s records from the previous school, but it is usually a good idea that families have their own copies of important paperwork to make sure their child is placed in the correct grade and classes.
Return any of the following items:
- School-issued computers and technology
- Textbooks
- Library books
- Sports equipment and uniforms
Gather:
- All items from the student’s desk
- All items from the student’s locker
- Any completed work and projects from teacher
Visit the school’s lost and found area if the student is missing any other items (coats, shoes, lunch bags, etc.)
Check with the school’s cafeteria manager to pay any outstanding balances or collect any credit.
If available, leave the forwarding address, email address, and/or phone number of the family with the school in case they need to contact them.
