Parents jailed for her school absences

Associated Press · December 9, 1959

Shirley LaPorte, 15, of Levittown, Pa., a junior high school student in nearby Fairless Hills, Pa., was absent 25 times from school this year. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ernest LaPorte claimed she was ill, but did not produce doctors certificate required by law. A Justice of the peace found them guilty of violating state's compulsory school attendance law yesterday. Mr. LaPorte spent 5 hours in jail before paying fine. Mrs. LaPorte stayed in jail almost 24 hours before her release after paying fine. Shirley is in juvenile detention home.