Educational content from the office of Francisco J. Vizcarrondo. Free to read, without registration.
Age of majority, graduation, and eligibility age limits are distinct. Puerto Rico Judiciary guidance identifies 21 as the age of majority, subject to applicable emancipation rules. Do not automatically import another jurisdiction’s age-18 rule.
Student rights and participation
Section 300.520 governs transfer of rights when provided by the jurisdiction, including notices to parents and the student and special procedures for inability to give informed consent. Section 300.320(c) requires IEP information at least one year before majority concerning rights that will transfer. Ask which rule applies to the student.
Graduation and exit
A regular high-school diploma can end the FAPE obligation; a certificate or lesser credential is not automatically equivalent. At exit by regular diploma or age, §300.305(e) requires a performance summary and recommendations supporting postsecondary goals. Review the separate pathways and diploma explanation.
Prepare subsequent supports
Request concrete transition planning, student participation, and coordination with relevant agencies. Reaching an age does not eliminate every protection under other laws. We can review exit notices and transition programming before significant decisions.
The answer for your situation depends on the facts and records. An inquiry does not suspend legal deadlines or guarantee that the office will accept the case.
Reference sources
34 C.F.R. §300.520 · Transferencia de derechos / Transfer of rights34 C.F.R. §300.320(c) · Aviso en el PEI / IEP noticePoder Judicial de Puerto Rico · Mayoría de edad y emancipación34 C.F.R. §300.102(a)(3) · Diploma regular y FAPE / Regular diploma and FAPE34 C.F.R. §300.305(e) · Egreso y resumen de desempeño / Exit and summary of performanceRules must be read in context. This explanation may require updating and individual review.