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Board questions expulsions for vaping; explores probation, drug testing and program options
Summary
Members said the district’s recent expulsions — including many tied to vaping/THC possession — may not reduce recidivism and asked administrators to research conditional reinstatement, random drug screening, education programs and costs before proposing changes.
Board members raised questions about the effectiveness of expulsions for nonviolent possession (THC/vape devices) and asked administrators to explore alternatives such as programmatic sanctions, semester‑long conditional reinstatements, and random drug screening tied to re‑entry.
Why it matters: Board members and principals said removing students from school can deprive them of instruction and that many cases reflect impulsive or experimental behavior rather than chronic threat. Several speakers noted the district recorded dozens of expulsions last year and urged solutions that keep at‑risk students engaged while holding them accountable.
Options discussed: Proposals included a probation‑style contract with required education and monitoring, mandatory or district‑arranged drug screening before reinstatement, community‑based education programs the district could fund or refer students to, and administrative waivers that would allow principals to recommend shorter suspensions when parents consent. Administrators cautioned they must confirm legal authorities and logistics before implementing alternatives.
Board direction: The board asked staff (including principal leaders and Mandy) to identify model programs, legal constraints, costs and whether the district could pay for or require random drug screens as part of a conditional return plan. Several members said expulsions are appropriate for violent conduct but expressed interest in alternatives for possession cases that do not threaten safety.
Ending: No policy change was adopted; staff were asked to return with options and cost estimates for board consideration.
