Cherry Creek Schools Missed Sign‑Language Duty for 11 Students

The Colorado Department of Education found that Cherry Creek Schools did not give sign‑language interpreters to 11 deaf or hard‑of‑hearing students at the start of the 2025‑26 school year. The issue arose after a parent filed a complaint in October. Investigators reviewed the district’s records and learned that 11 students had individualized education programs requiring interpreters. Yet, for about three months after school opened, the elementary campus had only one interpreter on staff and relied on a staffing agency for the rest. The agency’s contract ended in early August, just before classes began, leaving four positions vacant.When the school learned of the shortage on August 6, it informed parents that students would not have interpreters. Three staff members who could sign tried to help, but their other responsibilities made it impossible to cover all needs. As a result, two students could not fully participate in lessons, and others faced behavioral or attendance problems. The district later re‑signed with two agencies. The first new interpreter started on October 30, but full coverage was not achieved until November 12. The department ordered the district to submit a corrective action plan by March 17 and to offer compensatory lessons at no cost. Those lessons must last at least 50 hours, use American Sign Language or an interpreter, and allow students to interact with peers. Cherry Creek’s spokesperson said the district views this as an isolated incident and is working to prevent future staffing gaps.