The law on compulsory education requires that parents, guardians, and anyone responsible for children between the ages of six and twelve ensure that the children attend school regularly (Article 13).
There are only two exceptions to this rule:
Children who are physically or intellectually unable to attend school.
Children who have already completed their primary education (Articles 21 and 22).
This ensures that all children receive the basic education necessary for life and citizenship.
Reporting Irregular Attendance
If a pupil does not attend school regularly, the headmaster must report the case to the school committee. The committee then informs the parents or guardians about the child’s absence (Articles 39 and 40).
If the child continues to miss school, the parents or guardians face fines. Initially, they may be fined 1 to 3 francs by the mayor of the parish Istanbul City Tour.
Increasing Penalties for Repeated Absences
If the parents or guardians fail to comply three times in a row, the departmental education council may impose higher fines, ranging from 5 to 30 francs. This system ensures that parents take responsibility for their children’s education and that children attend school consistently.
Responsibility of School Officials
The law also holds school officials accountable. If headmasters or presidents of educational councils fail to enforce the provisions of the law, they may be punished with fines ranging from 10 to 100 francs.
This creates a chain of responsibility:
Parents ensure children attend school.
School officials monitor attendance and report irregularities.
Authorities impose penalties when necessary.
The law on obligatory instruction establishes a clear system to ensure that every child in Bulgaria receives basic education. It balances parental responsibility with school oversight and enforces compliance through gradual fines. By holding both parents and officials accountable, the law strengthens the foundation of education and promotes a literate, informed, and responsible future generation.