District Of Columbia § 38-301 - Definitions.
Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 38-301 — Definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 38-301. Definitions.
38-301For the purposes of this chapter, the term:
“Adult” means a person who is 18 years of age, or older.
“Adult student” means a student who is at least 18 years old, or who has been emancipated from parental control by marriage, operation of statute, or the order of a court of competent jurisdiction.
“Appointed representative” means an individual acting on behalf of a person, pursuant to his or her written authorization, in presenting to school or chartering authority officials documentation to establish or verify the District residency of the person seeking to enroll the student.
“Chartering Authority” means a District entity authorized to grant charters for the establishment of charter schools, pursuant to either or .
“Child” means a person who is less than 18 years of age.
“Custodian” means a person to whom physical custody has been granted by a court of competent jurisdiction.
“District of Columbia public schools” or “DCPS” means the District of Columbia public school system, not including public charter schools.
“Guardian” means a person who has been appointed legal guardian of a student by a court of competent jurisdiction.
“Orphan” means a child who resides in the District of Columbia and who does not have a living parent or guardian.
“Other primary caregiver” means a person other than a parent or court appointed custodian or guardian who is the primary provider of care and support to a child who resides with him or her, and whose parent, custodian, or guardian is unable to supply such care and support and who submits evidence, pursuant to and procedures established pursuant to , that he or she is the primary caregiver of the student.
“Parent” means a natural parent, stepparent, or parent by adoption who has custody or control of a student, including joint custody.
“Public charter school” means a District school authorized by a chartering authority.
“State Education Office” means the office established by .
Annotations
Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 38-301
What does D.C. Code § 38-301 cover?
Section 38-301 ("Definitions.") is part of the D.C. Code, the codified statutory law of District Of Columbia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite District Of Columbia § 38-301?
A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 38-301" (District Of Columbia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of District Of Columbia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the District Of Columbia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed District Of Columbia attorney.
How does District Of Columbia § 38-301 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia.