Darrin Anderson | General executive VP of CECA
Scottsdale is about to embark on a transformative journey in special education through the Conductive Education Center of Arizona (CECA). With the recent approval by the Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) Board of Education, CECA will occupy the Cholla Campus, providing a specialized approach that supports children and young adults with neurological motor disabilities. As a community, we have much to celebrate and even more to learn from this milestone.
CECA’s programs combine physical, cognitive and social development to create an environment in which students build essential life skills at every turn. Conductive education requires ongoing practice and personalized attention; CECA’s low student-to-staff ratio ensures each student gets the individualized focus they need to progress. By integrating these techniques into the district’s special education curriculum, students who might previously have faced insurmountable challenges now have greater opportunities to thrive.
This is a critical milestone for Scottsdale, and the city can be proud of this step forward. Our city’s commitment to education goes beyond general classrooms, extending to all learners, regardless of ability. The Cholla Campus, under CECA’s stewardship, demonstrates this ethos of inclusivity. By supporting CECA’s mission, Scottsdale is making a statement: every student — no matter their physical or cognitive hurdles — deserves to develop independence and realize their full potential.
CECA’s presence on Cholla Campus is only the beginning. With expansion plans across Arizona, CECA and SUSD will continue shaping the lives of students who deserve every opportunity to grow. Scottsdale stands to benefit from this collaboration, and our support — along with ongoing, civil community conversation — will help ensure success for all.
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