Our purpose
SEAA's Mission Statement
The Special Education Administrators of Arizona exists through the coming together of administrators desiring to improve special education services through inservices, support of appropriate legislation, input to State Department of Education, Special Education Division and fellowship with other administrators. Our purpose is to advise and assist in the planning, development, and implementation of activities which will ensure continued growth and attainment of best practices in the field of special education.
Our History
SEAA, The Special Education Administrators of Arizona, played a pioneering role in establishing special education in Arizona. Before 1973, the U.S. and Arizona lacked comprehensive special education programs.
Legal actions in Pennsylvania and the District of Columbia in 1971 influenced the creation of these programs. Meanwhile, in Arizona, parents had limited options to educate their disabled children, with most public schools lacking support.
Non-profit organizations emerged to fill the gap, relying on grassroots fundraising. In the early 1970s, SEAA was established by district directors to collectively represent special education interests.
SEAA quickly grew and played a pivotal role in addressing challenges, advocating for special education students, and shaping the state's educational landscape.