DASS Application Instructions

The Dashboard Alternative School Status (DASS) program is limited to schools that meet certain eligibility requirements established by the State Board of Education (SBE). Schools are identified as "alternative" through one of two methods: Alternative Schools Defined in Education Code (EC) or Application-Based DASS.

Schools that serve high-risk youth, but are not explicitly required to do so in the EC, may apply for DASS status through the California Department of Education (CDE). These include: (1) alternative schools of choice and (2) charter schools that serve high-risk students. These schools must have an unduplicated count of at least 70 percent high-risk students within the school's cumulative enrollment (upon first entry to the school) to be eligible for DASS. The high-risk student groups can be found on the following CDE website: DASS Eligibility Criteria.

DASS Application Freeze Notice

CDE has paused the DASS (Dashboard Alternative School Status) application process. This temporary freeze allows time for the State Board of Education to review and update the application criteria and procedures as part of the 2026 Accountability Workplan. No new applications or renewals will be accepted during this period. Schools interested in applying/renewing for DASS status are encouraged to monitor the CDE website for updates.

Schools that submitted a renewal application between March and July 2025 will retain their status as a DASS school through the 2026 Dashboard and 2025-26 Accountability Reporting Cycle, and their application will remain valid when applications reopen.

Confirmation of Dashboard Alternative School Status

CDE will post an updated list of active DASS schools for the 2025-26 school year and 2026 Dashboard on its website following State Board action within the 2026 Accountability Workplan.

Terms of Dashboard Alternative Schools Status Participation

All DASS participating schools must continuously serve 70 percent of high-risk students each year. If a school's enrollment of high-risk students falls below 70 percent, the school will be removed from DASS.

All Schools voluntarily participating in the DASS program will be required to re-apply for DASS every three years (i.e., if a school is approved to participate in DASS for the 2024-25 Accountability year, this school must reapply in 2027 for the 2027-28 Accountability year to continue their participation in DASS). If a school fails to reapply, the school will be removed from DASS.