Massachusetts § 3 - Attendance of illiterate minors; penalties
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 3 — Attendance of illiterate minors; penalties, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 3. Attendance of illiterate minors; penalties
Section 3. Every minor between sixteen and eighteen who does not meet the requirements for the completion of the sixth grade of the public schools of the town where the minor resides shall, except as otherwise provided herein, attend some public evening school, if any, in the town of the minor's residence, for the whole time during which the public evening schools are in session, unless the minor attends a public day school, or a private school approved as provided in section one by the school committee, or unless the minor's physical or mental condition is such as to render the minor's attendance harmful or impractical. Any such minor may, with the consent of the school committee of the town in which the minor resides, attend a public evening school in the town where the minor is employed, upon such terms as may be agreed upon by the school committees of such towns. Wilful violations of this section by such a minor shall be punished by a fine of not less than five dollars; failure for six sessions within a period of one month by any person in control of such a minor to cause the minor's attendance shall, on complaint by a supervisor of attendance, be punished by a fine of not more than twenty dollars.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 3
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 3 cover?
Section 3 ("Attendance of illiterate minors; penalties") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts § 3?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 3" (Massachusetts). 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 Massachusetts law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.
How does Massachusetts § 3 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts.