State finds Arizona Schools for the Deaf and the Blind violated US law in move

The Arizona Department of Education found that the Arizona State Schools for the Deaf and the Blind violated federal special education law while moving its programs to Oro Valley. The state said ASDB predetermined placements for blind and visually impaired students instead of considering each student’s individual needs.

The department appointed a special monitor and ordered ASDB to review placement options for affected students by Aug. 28. The school must revisit cases in which decisions were made without genuinely considering alternatives, then hold new individualized education program meetings with families.

ASDB announced plans earlier this year to move its deaf and hard-of-hearing programs to Oro Valley and close its residential campus on West Speedway. Blind and visually impaired students were expected to transition to local school districts, even though some had previously been referred to ASDB because their districts could not provide the specialized services they needed.

The University of Arizona Education Advocacy Clinic filed a complaint in May after hearing concerns from families. The clinic said placement meetings appeared limited to local school districts rather than including specialized schools, residential programs or other appropriate options. Possible placements could include ASDB’s new Copper Creek campus, the private Tucson School for the Blind or a residential program.

ASDB said it is reviewing the state’s findings with legal counsel to determine its next steps. Several parents and former parents welcomed the finding but said they remain concerned about the disruption to students, the loss of friendships and whether they would feel comfortable returning to ASDB.