District Of Columbia § 38-781.02 - Student retention and promotion.
Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 38-781.02 — Student retention and promotion., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 38-781.02. Student retention and promotion.
38-781.02In accordance with the requirements of this chapter or as set forth in the DCMR, a DCPS student can be retained at any grade level.
Decisions regarding the promotion and retention of a DCPS student enrolled in pre-kindergarten through 8th grade shall be made by the student’s principal based upon the recommendation of the student’s teacher and in consideration of the promotion requirements set forth in the DCMR.
A DCPS student enrolled in 9th grade through 11th grade shall be promoted if the student meets the promotion requirements as set forth in the DCMR.
Notwithstanding subsection (b) of this section:
A principal may:
Retain any student who does not meet the promotion requirements set forth in the DCMR; and
Promote a student who has failed to meet the promotion requirements set forth in the DCMR; provided, that the principal submits a written explanation justifying the decision to the Chancellor before the promotion is made; and
No student with more than 30 unexcused absences in a school year shall be promoted unless the principal submits a written explanation justifying the decision to the Chancellor before the promotion is made.
The Chancellor may develop separate promotion criteria for students who are enrolled in an English language learner program or receive special education services.
Annotations
Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 38-781.02
What does D.C. Code § 38-781.02 cover?
Section 38-781.02 ("Student retention and promotion.") 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 § 38-781.02?
A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 38-781.02" (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 § 38-781.02 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.