A question was raised as to the exact meaning of the-word any in "the principal with the approval of the local school committee or board of directors is authorized to excuse any pupil who is 14 years of age or older from regular school programs for the purpose of participating in a suitable program of work, work study or training," which is found on page 3, sub-section 10 of 20 MRSA911 of the legislation. Does this mean any pupil 14 years of age or older who is an habitual truant or dropout, or does it mean all pupils 14 years of age or older" An opinion from our Assistant Attorney General indicates that this applies to all pupils 14 years of age or older. It is pointed out that authorization to excuse pupils is given but there is no requirement that the pupil must be excused. The Department is of the opinion that this option should be used as a last resort.
05- 071 C.M.R. ch. 128, § 9