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CUSD staff propose policy change to align special-education transition services; suspension/expulsion procedure split presented as information
Summary
District staff presented a policy revision to align CUSD policy 5-203 with a State Board rule requiring transition planning by ninth grade or age 16. Staff also presented a procedural revision splitting suspension and expulsion procedures (5-306a into two procedures); both items were informational and will return to the board as required.
Staff presented two information items related to student discipline and special education during the Feb. 12, 2025 board meeting.
Dr. Marshall summarized an Arizona State Board of Education rule change approved Oct. 21, 2024 requiring school districts to begin transition services in individualized education programs (IEPs) by ninth grade or age 16, align transition goals with projected high-school graduation dates, and inform parents of the projected graduation date. The proposed revision to Policy 5-203 (Students with Disabilities) would align district practices with that rule. Staff presented the policy revision for information; it is scheduled to return for board action in the normal policy cycle.
Dr. Dela Torre presented a separate information item recommending that existing Procedure 5-306(a) be divided into two procedures to separately address student suspension and student expulsion. Staff said the division is stylistic and that the verbiage remains compliant with state law; procedures do not require formal board approval but were presented publicly for transparency.
Board members asked clarifying questions about timing and statutory alignment; staff said the changes are intended to reflect state law and to improve administrative clarity. No formal votes or adoption occurred at the meeting; the policy revision will appear on a subsequent agenda for action as required.
