Arizona Autism Charter Schools, Inc.

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Overview

Arizona Autism Charter School (AZACS) is the first and only tuition-free, public charter school in Arizona focused on the educational needs of children with autism. The school's primary focus is to use the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to support students' behavioral needs and help them access state instructional standards to the best of their ability. AZACS was unanimously approved to serve grades K-12 grade by the Arizona State Board for Charter Schools. AZACS is serving families with two campuses in Central Phoenix, a campus in the West Valley and a fully accredited online school. Our one-of-kind charter network has been recognized nationally for excellence and innovation, winning the prestigious Yass Prize in 2022!


MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of Arizona Autism Charter Schools, Inc. is to educate students with autism and related disorders using evidence based strategies grounded in the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). This model will be delivered by highly trained teachers and staff. Our goal is to make this high quality, specialized education accessible to all students with autism in the Phoenix Metropolitan area and beyond.

Our Vision

Students will be empowered to reach their full potential in motivating, compassionate environments using individualized programs so that every child gains the skills to integrate into the community and become a fulfilled, productive citizen. 

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statement

All individuals are welcome at Arizona Autism Charter Schools, regardless of race, color, age, national origin, sex, transgender status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, religion, disability, genetic information, marital status, political affiliation or parental status. Diversity not only complements our organizational values of teamwork, leadership, empowerment, and service quality, but also encompasses the way we work, the work environment, and respect for all people and their ideas.

 

 

 

 
 
Watch the progress AZACS has made throughout the years, along with testimonials from current and former parents of our school!
 
 
 

Leadership Team

Diana Diaz-Harrison, M.Ed.
Lead Founder & Executive Director
 
Lisa Long, M.Ed.
Head of Operations & Growth
 
Dana Van Denise, M.Ed.
Senior Director of Online Schools
 
Allan Smith, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA
Upper Campus Director
 
Denise Ballard, M.Ed.
Upper Campus Co-Director
 
Tracy Malcolm, M.A., M.S.
Elementary Campus Director
 
Carla Smith, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA
Elementary Campus Co-Director
 
Patrick Masson, M.Ed.
Early Learning Center School Director
 
Claire Piper, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA
Early Learning Center School Co-Director
 
Myla Goyne, M.Ed.
West Valley Elementary School Director
 
Michelle Downie, M.Ed.
West Valley Elementary School Co-Director
 
 

Arizona Autism Charter Schools Board of Directors

 
Board President
Keisha McKinnor, Thrive Community Services, Inc.
 
Board Treasurer
Paul Pucino, Nextbite
 
Board Secretary
Ron Harrison, Salt River Project (SRP), AZACS Parent
 
Board Directors
Genaro Delgadillo, Central Arizona Project (CAP)
Ross Meyer, DevWerks, Inc., AZACS Parent
 
 
Arizona Autism Charter Schools Inc. is governed by the Arizona State Board for Charter Schools. See the link below for the school's financial, operational and academic dashboards.
 
 
Facilities
The three AZACS facilities (Early Learning Center, Elementary and Upper School) are located in the heart of Phoenix: just across the street from each other!
 
main campus
AZACS Main Campus
4125. N 14th St. Phoenix, AZ 85014
 
AZACS Early Learning Center Campus
1445 E. Indian School Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85014