In order to attend Marlborough Public Schools, a student must actually reside in the city of Marlborough. The residence of a minor child is presumed to be the legal residence of the parent(s) or guardian(s) who have physical custody of the child. “Residence” is the place where a person dwells permanently, not temporarily, and is the place that is the center of their domestic, social, and civic life.

 An 18-year-old student may establish their independence from their parent/guardian by filling out the appropriate paperwork through their Assistant Principal. This paperwork shall indicate that the student is taking over responsibility for themselves. The District will continue to notify the student’s parent/guardian regarding all issues until this paperwork is properly completed and on file. Once this paperwork is properly completed and on file, the District will no longer communicate with the student’s parent/guardian except as required by law unless written permission is granted by the student. Upon the completion of this paperwork at age 18, the student ceases to be a minor. At that time any person 18 years of age or older may establish a residence separate and apart from his/her parents or guardians for school attendance purposes.

 Temporary residence in the City of Marlborough, solely for the purpose of attending a Marlborough Public School, shall not be considered residency. In determining residency, Marlborough Public Schools reserves its right to request a variety of documentation and to conduct an investigation into where a student actually resides. Because residency can, and does, change for students and their families during the course of the academic year, Marlborough Public Schools may continue to verify residency after the commencement of classes. For those students residing with a family member other than their parent and/or legal guardian, completion of a Caregiver Authorization Affidavit in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 201F shall be required.

 A determination that a student is ineligible to attend Marlborough Public Schools due to a failure to reside in the City of Marlborough will result in dismissal from the Marlborough Public Schools. In a case involving a student in their senior year and in good standing who moves during their senior year, we will allow them to remain at school with the approval of the Building Administrator until graduation. If the student has had disciplinary issues or poses a concern he/she will not be allowed to remain. A student aggrieved by a dismissal due to failing to reside in Marlborough may appeal this determination to the Superintendent, whose decision shall be final. A student may be allowed to remain in school until all such administrative appeals are exhausted.

 Questions regarding homeless students should be directed to the Central Registrar for guidance. If a parent/custodian is claiming rights to attend as a non-resident, the Assistant Superintendent of Student Services & Equity shall be contacted for further assistance. Students who move within the City shall be addressed in accordance with Policy JFC Non-resident students may be enrolled only in accordance with MPS, policies (Policy JEA, JG) and/or state/federal law.

Legal Reference: Ch. 76, S. 5                                                                                        

8/28/2007 Cf. (XXX)     

Approved: 5.22.18

Revised/Approved 12.13.22

Approved: 8/27/24