During the Yuma Union High School District Governing Board meeting on February 13, 2025, a significant discussion arose regarding the long-term suspension of a student, which has sparked concerns about procedural fairness and its impact on academic performance.

Cassell Wiggins, a father of four, addressed the board, advocating for a formal review of his son's suspension record. He highlighted that an independent hearing officer found insufficient evidence to support the disciplinary action taken against his son for a Class 2 electronic violation. Wiggins emphasized that the suspension was not a result of guilt but rather procedural delays that extended the hearing process. He reported a drastic decline in his son's GPA, from 3.83 to 2.83, and noted that the suspension led to emotional distress, including withdrawal and the need for counseling.

Wiggins urged the district to take immediate action by removing the long-term suspension from his son's record, providing academic support to help him recover, and ensuring that procedural safeguards are established to prevent similar situations in the future. He expressed hope that the district would uphold its commitment to fairness and due process.

The meeting also included a call to the public, allowing community members to voice their concerns, but the focus remained on the implications of the Wiggins case. The board's response to this issue could set a precedent for how disciplinary actions are handled moving forward, emphasizing the importance of timely and fair processes in educational settings.