J-2 dependents can apply for work permission from Immigration. The J-2 will need to complete a brief application for Immigration and submit it with a fee to INS for approval. It will take several weeks for permission to be granted. Work is not authorized until formal permission is received from Immigration. Spouses with professional backgrounds may be eligible for H-1B status if they can find an employer who is willing to apply for this status.
Dependents have no specific requirements as to the level of their attendance.
Children of dependents who are residing in the U.S. are required to abide by school attendance laws. They may attend the public school in the school district that they live in without charge, regardless of immigration status. You may choose to place your child in a private school, but realize that these institutions do charge tuition which is often very expensive. Before they can enter school, children will need a specific medical examination and immunizations. Contact the appropriate school department for details.