In the News

Sixteen-year-old Jacob Vela of Donna is a changed young man. He credits his new outlook on life to Donna ISD’s Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP).

The Donna Alternative Education Program (DAEP) School implemented a new program this school year called “Dress for Success and Leadership Workshop.” Principal Juan Mendoza said that since the campus launched the program, they’ve noticed a difference in their student’s attitude and self-esteem. “We’re amazed as to how much this program is impacting our kids in a positive way. You can see it in their behavior. We hope this will ultimately reflect on their school work, home environment and overall daily lives,” Mendoza said.

Administrators at Donna ISD’s Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) are always looking for new ideas outside of the school’s traditionally, high-structured environment to help motivate students to grow academically. Their latest undertaking, believe it or not, is gardening. In an effort to prepare their teachers for this new initiative, the school partnered with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and hosted a Gardening Workshop, Tuesday (Jan. 7). Principal Juan Mendoza said it was important to him to invite educators from other Rio Grande Valley school district alternative programs so they can also learn other ways to make teaching interesting and learning fun for students. Weslaco, McAllen, Edcouch Elsa and Sharyland ISDs were represented at the workshop.

Donna ISD’s Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) and its successful initiatives were placed in the national spotlight when its campus leader was featured in a video that has been made accessible to school districts across the country.