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District reports sharp drop in drug‑related discipline hearings after diversion partnerships
Summary
District officials reported a decline in long‑term suspension hearings for drug use at high schools after implementing diversion programs with Pinal County Health Department and the sheriff’s office; officials also raised concerns about vaping‑related facility damage.
Florence Unified School District administrators reported a significant decline in long‑term suspension hearings tied to drug use at the district’s high schools and credited diversion partnerships with the Pinal County Health Department and Pinal County Sheriff’s Office.
At the Jan. 14 board meeting, a district official who oversees discipline said that in 2023 more than half (53%) of long‑term suspension hearings were drug‑related. The official said the share fell to 28% in 2024 and that, comparing like‑for‑like mid‑year counts, the share is about 14% so far this school year; the official explained the figures reflect an “apples‑to‑apples” comparison of mid‑year data.
The official said the district’s diversion program, run in coordination with county partners, has helped reduce repeat incidents and keep students connected to services instead of moving directly to long‑term suspensions.
Board members and administrators also described vaping as an ongoing concern. A board member said repeated instances of disposable vaping devices flushed down toilets had damaged plumbing at Boston Butte High School; he said the repair cost was about $10,000.
During the same exchange the board referenced a local “vape diversion” program by name in discussion; district staff described the program generally as a diversionary option intended to reduce repeat disciplinary incidents related to vaping and marijuana use.
Ending
District officials told the board they will continue to work with county partners on diversion approaches aimed at reducing suspensions and supporting students with substance‑use concerns.
