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Board approves extension of alternative education (DAPE) participation from 45 to 180 days
Summary
The governing board unanimously approved a recommendation from the Alternative Education Advisory Committee to allow students placed in the district’s alternative program (DAPE) to remain up to 180 days, up from the prior 45‑day cap. Administration said the change increases access for long‑term suspended students and those awaiting expulsion.
The Tucson Unified School District governing board voted Jan. 28 to extend the maximum enrollment period in the district’s Disciplinary Alternative Placement for Education program (DAPE) from 45 days to 180 days.
District director of alternative education Yolanda Núñez told the board that DAPE provides academic and social‑emotional supports to students serving long‑term suspensions. She described DAPE as voluntary, with home‑school teachers continuing to supply curriculum while DAPE staff provide academic support, restorative‑practices facilitation, and community resource connections.
Núñez and advisory‑committee chair Gabriel Garcia said the committee reviewed data and recommended the extension primarily to ensure continuity for students whose suspensions or pending expulsion processes extend beyond 45 days. Staff said about 40% of referred families previously declined DAPE because of transportation or work‑schedule constraints; the advisory group recommended exploring an online option in a later phase.
Board member Michelle Shaw moved the measure; the motion was seconded and carried. Administration said families who initially decline DAPE can be contacted later and may opt in, and that students already beyond 45 days would become eligible under the new timeline.
Board discussion noted interest in a later review of an online DAPE option and emphasized the importance of transition supports for students returning to home schools.
