Special Education Student, Therapist, Educator, Parent Organization (SPEED STEP)  brings together students, therapists, educators, administrators, parents and friends within the Port Angeles School District who have an interest in special education. 

SPEED STEP's mission is primarily one of support for students, educators and families dealing with special needs and circumstances.  It is our hope to use this forum to learn from one another, help foster a cohesive flow of special education service through the school district, support special education teachers with supplies and training they need for their classrooms, advocate for the needs of the special education population, and to coordinate and strengthen the students' and parents' point of view when discussing the future of special education services within the school district.

SPEED STEP's goals include providing resource information to families; promoting the welfare of children with special needs; supporting special education teachers with supplies and resources for the classroom; fostering an understanding of special education and striving to enrich the lives of children with special needs; providing support to parents with special needs children through shared experience and training opportunities; informing legislators, school board members and the community about the importance of special education programs; advocating for children with special needs and their right to a free and appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment. 

SPEED STEP works for the day when cooperation, coordination and mutual respect for all team members (students, teachers, parents, therapist, administrators, evaluators, friends) create an environment where children with special needs can be assured of receiving sound intervention in a positive and supportive atmosphere where their competence is assumed, their abilities are respected, the results of their growth and work are fully evaluated and adjustments are made with the aim of supporting the student to reach his or her potential.  We work for the day when special education is not viewed by the community as devalued or lesser education.  We work for the day when special education is a blessing and an opportunity for a fulfilling and dynamic educational life for all children with special needs.