School Committee Announcement

Victory Autism Academy Proposal Raises Questions in Sun City West

By Cindy Putman

A new school proposal near Sun City West is sparking conversation—and concern—among residents of the 55+ community. Victory Autism Academy (VAA), a private K–12 school specializing in education for autistic children, has announced plans to open a new campus within or near the community’s borders.

While many residents support VAA’s mission, some are worried about the potential long-term impact on Sun City West’s age-restricted status and the federal protections that preserve its character as a retirement haven.

What We Know

Supervisor Debbie Lesko said “Victory Autism Academy is a private school, not a public or charter institution. Under current Arizona law, private schools are permitted to operate on commercially zoned land.” VAA has selected such a site for its new campus.

This legal framework distinguishes it from charter schools, which were explicitly banned from Sun City in 2011 through legislation spearheaded by then–State Representative Debbie Lesko. That law, however, does not apply to private schools or extend to the adjacent Sun City West area.

Legal Context: HOPA and Zoning

At the heart of the concern is the Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA), a federal law passed in 1995 that allows communities to restrict residential occupancy to those aged 55 and older. Sun City West, like many active adult communities across the country, relies on HOPA to maintain its age-restricted identity.

However, HOPA only applies to residential housing, not to commercial property. That means businesses—including private schools—may legally operate nearby, even if they serve children and families.

Community Reactions

Some residents view the school’s presence as a potential crack in the foundation of the 55+ model. They worry that allowing educational facilities to open so close to the community could pave the way for future development that might erode the protections HOPA provides.

“This isn’t about the children,” one resident shared. “We care deeply about special needs education. But we also moved here for a reason—and that reason was a quiet, age-restricted environment.”

Others argue that the fears are premature, noting that commercial zoning already permits a wide range of business activities, and the school will not be located within any residential enclave of Sun City West.

What Comes Next

Community leaders are considering whether to pursue new legislation that mirrors the 2011 Sun City charter school ban—this time aimed at restricting private schools near age-restricted zones like Sun City West.

In the meantime, dialogue with local officials and planning boards is ongoing. Residents are encouraged to attend town meetings, stay informed, and work through the appropriate legal and civic channels.

A Delicate Balance

As the community weighs its next steps, many hope a solution can be found that respects both the needs of families seeking specialized education and the integrity of the 55+ lifestyle that defines Sun City West.

The issue highlights the complexities of zoning, community planning, and changing demographics—reminding all involved that even in established communities, the landscape is always evolving.