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Chandler Unified hears 22 public commenters defending on‑campus CTE; board authorizes counsel, conditionally OKs legal action over EVIT IGA
Summary
Dozens of students, parents and teachers urged the Chandler Unified School District board to keep career and technical education (CTE) programs on campus rather than moving them to EVIT. The board approved retaining special counsel on EVIT IGA matters and, by a 4–1 vote, pre‑authorized legal action if counsel recommends it.
Dozens of students, parents and teachers told the Chandler Unified School District governing board on Sept. 10 that moving high‑school career and technical education (CTE) programs off campus would reduce access and harm extracurricular opportunities.
The public‑comment period included 22 speakers who gave first‑hand examples of how on‑campus CTE supports leadership organizations, industry certifications, dual‑enrollment pathways and equity for students who cannot drive. "I believe staying in our school's CTE programs is the most beneficial option," said Maya Archie, a student at Basha High School, who spoke for one minute during the board’s allotted public‑comment time.
Others reinforced that message. "The agriculture program has not only prepared me to gain the credentials and skill set I need for my future, but has provided leadership skills to manage staff and thrive in a working environment," said Megan Lam, vice president of Basha FFA. Ria Patel, a student at ACB High School, described transportation barriers for low‑income students and freshmen who do not drive: "Making students drive long distances to EVIT facilities is...not a feasible option for many students who want to participate."
Board members acknowledged the speakers and discussed next steps. After public comment closed, the board moved on multiple EVIT‑related actions. The board unanimously approved engaging Osborne Maladon, P.A., as special counsel to advise the district on the EVIT satellite intergovernmental agreement (IGA) and related matters. The board also voted (10.06) to confirm direction given to counsel in executive session.
Most consequentially, on item 10.07 the board voted 4–1 to authorize Osborne Maladon to initiate legal action on behalf of the district "if needed" regarding the EVIT satellite IGA and related funding statutes. One board member opposed pre‑authorizing litigation and said counsel should return to the board with findings and a recommendation before the district files suit.
Board members and staff said the moves were intended to protect existing campus CTE programming and related funding streams while negotiations continue. "We're taking steps to protect students, protect the funding, and make sure these programs continue," one board member said during debate.
The board’s authorization does not mean litigation has begun; the vote gives counsel authority to act should negotiations and other remedies prove insufficient. The district’s next procedural steps and any formal filings will be determined by counsel and reported to the board if action is recommended.
