Dayton Public Schools leaders defend and refine Jackson Center alternative program amid questions on enrollment, in-lieu suspensions and supports

Dayton Public Schools officials described progress and remaining work on the district's Jackson Center alternative program during a board meeting where staff answered questions about enrollment, staffing, transportation and the district's use of "in lieu of" suspensions.

The district presented enrollment and staffing data and outlined the intake and return process for students assigned to the center. Shara Simmons, representing secondary schools, said the program currently serves 15 enrolled middle school students and 22 enrolled high school students; daily non-enrolled attendance fluctuates and was described as "anywhere from 20 students to 50 students a day." Simmons said the program currently has seven teachers, one intervention specialist, one school counselor, a full-time therapist from South Community and one OEC academic coordinator, and that the district is seeking a replacement social worker.

District staff described the Jackson Center as split into two academies: Inspire (enrolled students) and RISE (non-enrolled students placed at the center in lieu of suspension or expulsion). Principal Christian said enrolled high-school students follow a five-period day with four core classes…