Parents urge Tempe school board to rethink decentralization of Success University program

The Tempe Union High School District (TUHSD) held a Special Governing Board Meeting on December 13, 2023, to discuss significant changes regarding the Success University program, which supports students with special needs. The meeting featured multiple speakers, including students and parents, who expressed concerns about the proposed decentralization of the program.

The first speaker, a student from Success University, emphasized the program's positive impact on job readiness for students with disabilities. They highlighted the importance of having a supportive environment that caters to individual needs, stating that Success University offers more opportunities for personal growth and job placement than traditional high schools.

Following this, Michael Chapnick, a parent, raised questions about the decision-making process behind the proposed changes. He noted a lack of communication from district leadership regarding how student outcomes would be measured and expressed concern that the decision did not prioritize the needs of students with disabilities. He urged the board to consider the implications of decentralizing a program that has proven beneficial.

Pam Bartlett, another parent, echoed these sentiments, advocating for more research and community input before making such significant changes. She shared a personal story about her son, illustrating the positive outcomes that can arise from specialized programs like Success University. Bartlett argued that the current model, which allows students from various schools to attend, should be preserved to ensure continued support for vulnerable populations.

Kristen Cutlip, a parent of a Success University student, praised the program for its effectiveness in preparing her son for adulthood. She criticized the idea of returning the program to traditional schools, arguing that it would diminish the quality of education and support available to students with special needs.

Jody Hernandez, another concerned parent, highlighted the confusion surrounding the program's future and the transition process for students with disabilities. She pointed out the challenges of scheduling parent meetings during busy times of the year and called for clearer communication from the district regarding the status of Success University.

The meeting concluded with a clear call from parents and students for the board to reconsider the decentralization plan and to prioritize the needs of students with disabilities. The discussions underscored the importance of maintaining specialized programs that provide essential support and job readiness for vulnerable populations within the district. The board's next steps remain to be seen as they navigate the feedback from the community.