[ez-toc]
Disciplinary Alternative Education Programs (DAEP) are utilized in Texas as an alternative education program for students who have violated their district’s Student Code of Conduct or committed certain offenses, such as a felony. The purpose of DAEPs is to provide a safe and structured learning environment where students can address the behavioral issues that led to their removal from their regular school setting. There are concerns though that this is not happening.
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) mandates that all public school districts in Texas have a DAEP, with specific requirements outlined in Chapter 37 of the Texas Education Code. These requirements include providing a safe and structured learning environment, core academic instruction, counseling, and support services for students, and regular progress reports for parents. The TEA also offers guidance on the development and implementation of DAEPs. In Texas, districts utilize a disciplinary alternative education program (DAEP). This is an alternative education program for students who violate a district’s Student Code of Conduct or certain other offenses, such as a felony offense. DAEPs are designed to provide students with a safe and structured learning environment where they can address the behavioral issues that led to their removal from their regular school setting.
Concerns about DAEP Schools
A growing body of evidence suggests that Texas DAEP schools can harm students. Some of the ways in which DAEPs can harm students include:
- Segregation: DAEPs often segregate students who have behavioral problems from their peers. This can lead to students feeling isolated and stigmatized, which can make it even harder for them to succeed in school.
- Reduced academic rigor: DAEPs often have lower academic standards than regular schools. This can lead to students falling behind in their studies, making it more difficult to catch up.
- Increased dropout rates: Students who attend DAEPs are more likely to drop out of school than students who stay in their regular schools.
- Increased involvement in the juvenile justice system: Students who attend DAEPs are more likely to be involved in the juvenile justice system than students who stay in their regular schools.
DAEPs are often seen as a last resort for students with behavioral problems, but there is growing evidence that they can be harmful to students. One of the biggest problems with DAEPs is that they tend to segregate students who have behavioral problems from their peers. This can lead to students feeling isolated and stigmatized, which can make it even harder for them to succeed in school.
In addition, DAEPs often have smaller class sizes and fewer resources than traditional schools. This can give students the impression that they are not as capable as their peers, which can lead to low self-esteem and a lack of motivation. DAEPs often have a more punitive approach to discipline than regular schools. This can lead to students feeling like they are being punished for their behavior rather than being helped to address the underlying causes of their problems.
As a result of these problems, DAEPs can actually make it more difficult for students to succeed in school. In fact, studies have shown that students who are sent to DAEPs are more likely to drop out of school, get involved in crime, and end up in the juvenile justice system.
Research on DAEP Schools
Here are some of the studies that have been conducted on the effects of disciplinary alternative education programs (DAEPs) in Texas:
- “Disciplinary Alternative Education Programs in Texas: What is Known; What is Needed” (2009) by IDRA. This study found that DAEPs are disproportionately used for students of color and students with disabilities. It also found that DAEPs do not positively impact student achievement or behavior.
- “The Impact of Disciplinary Alternative Education Programs on Student Outcomes” (2011) by the Texas Education Agency. This study found that students who attend DAEPs are more likely to drop out of school, be arrested, and be incarcerated than students who do not attend DAEPs.
- “The Relationship Between Disciplinary Alternative Education Placement and Academic Achievement” (2013) by the University of Texas at Austin. This study found that students who attend DAEPs are more likely to have lower academic achievement than students who do not attend DAEPs.
- “The Impact of Disciplinary Alternative Education Programs on Student Success” (2015) by the Texas Public Policy Foundation. This study found that DAEPs do not positively impact student achievement or behavior.
These studies provide strong evidence that DAEPs can have a number of adverse effects on students. Given these negative effects, it is important to consider alternative approaches to discipline.
If your child has been suspended or expelled from school, it is important to talk to your school district about other options. You should also consider seeking legal help to avoid the potential harm of attending a Texas DAEP school.
Reach out to K Altman Law for a consultation!
There are many reasons why you might choose K Altman Law to represent you in a student discipline or education law matter. Here are just a few:
- Experience: Keith Altman has a deep understanding of the student discipline and education law landscape. He has successfully represented students in a wide range of cases, including suspensions, expulsions, academic misconduct, and Title IX violations.
- Competence: Keith Altman is a highly skilled and experienced attorney. He has a proven track record of success in the courtroom, and he is committed to providing his clients with the best possible representation.
- Commitment to Client Service: Keith Altman is committed to providing his clients with the highest level of client service. He is available to answer your questions and address your concerns, and he will work tirelessly to protect your rights.
If you are facing a student discipline or education law matter and seeking help from a legal experts, Contact K Altman Law!
