Tempe Union board adopts resolution committing to equity and inclusion for special education students, 5‑0

The Tempe Union High School District governing board adopted a resolution affirming its commitment to equity and inclusion for special education students after a lengthy discussion about wording and scope.

The board heard one public comment in support from Jennifer Jarvis, who asked the full board to adopt the resolution to improve special education student achievement and better meet students' needs. Board members then debated phrasing—whether the resolution should reference the governing board only or the district, whether it should say a "specific" or "distinct" focus on special education students, and how best to craft positive language about policies and practices.

Member Amber Steele read the revised text to the board; the resolution affirms the governing board's dedication to an inclusive learning environment, states a focus on historically marginalized populations "with a distinct focus on our special education students," and commits that the board supports and values the district's work to identify and remove barriers. The resolution also includes a clause saying the board "denounces any actions or policies of the district that shall not dehumanize, marginalize, or violate the rights of special education students," language included as part of the final draft read aloud by Member Steele.

President Montero moved to adopt item K2; Member Steele made the motion and Member Bridal seconded. The board voted 5‑0 to adopt the resolution. The resolution calls for a copy to be sent to all Tempe Union High School District staff within 72 hours of adoption and will appear in board messages as an official board item.