District Of Columbia § 38-501 - Definitions.
Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 38-501 — Definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 38-501. Definitions.
38-501For the purpose of this chapter:
The term “admit” or the term “admission” means the official enrollment at any level by a school of a student that entitles the student to attend the school regularly, whether full-time or part-time, and to participate fully in all the activities established for a student of his or her age, educational level, or other appropriate classification.
The term “certification of immunization” means written certification by a private physician, his or her representative, or the public health authorities that the student is immunized.
The term “student” means any person who seeks admission to school, or for whom admission to school is sought by a parent or guardian, and who will not have attained the age of 26 years by the start of the school term for which admission is sought.
The term “immunized” or the term “immunization” means initial immunization and any boosters or reimmunization required to maintain immunization against diphtheria, poliomyelitis, tetanus, rubella, measles, and mumps in accordance with the immunization standards issued by the public health authorities pursuant to this chapter.
The term “Mayor” means the Mayor of the District of Columbia.
The term “public health authorities” means the official or officials of the executive branch of the government of the District of Columbia designated by the Mayor pursuant to this chapter.
The term “responsible person” means, in the case of a student under 18 years of age, a parent or guardian of the student, but in the case of a student 18 years of age or older, the student himself or herself.
The term “school” means:
Any public school through the 12th grade operated under the authority of the Board of Education of the District of Columbia;
Any private or parochial school that offers instruction at any level or grade from kindergarten through 12th;
Any private or parochial nursery school or preschool, or any private or parochial day-care facility required to be licensed by the District of Columbia; and
Any college or university created or incorporated by special act of Congress or the Council of the District of Columbia or required to be licensed by the District of Columbia.
Annotations
Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 38-501
What does D.C. Code § 38-501 cover?
Section 38-501 ("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 § 38-501?
A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 38-501" (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 § 38-501 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.