All boys or girls under the age of sixteen (16) years, residing in such county, and who may be adjudged to be dependent or neglected children, under existing laws, shall be eligible to appointment to such schools and homes, and the district court of such county shall have power to enforce their appointment and attendance thereat. The length of term for which such children shall be required to attend such schools and homes shall be determined by the board of supervision; provided, that nothing in this act shall be construed so as to prevent the said board from delivering any such child back to the parent or guardian at any time they may deem proper.
Laws 1919, c. 297, p. 434, § 4; Laws 1925, c. 161, p. 257, § 1; Laws 1967, c. 367, § 3, emerg. eff. May 22, 1967.