Mission Statement
SPaN works to enhance the professional growth and development of its members and to act as a primary resource for advocates.
Purpose of the organization
- Develop and promote standards for practicing advocates
- Promote the recognition of advocacy as a profession
- Provide its members with professional information needed to assist clients adequately and appropriately
- Provide workshops, training and professional information on issues related to special education
- Provide its members with opportunities for continuing education and professional development
- Provide a forum where advocates can discuss common needs and share and disseminate information
- Help advocates establish sound business practices
- Enable peer support among advocates
- Provide information about governmental activities, both federal and state, that impact special education law
- Develop and maintain a collegial, collaborative and cooperative relationship with public and private agencies which are concerned about special education
- Publish a newsletter
- Provide the public with a list of special education advocates
- Offer telephone information and referral for parents and professionals
- Encourage members to sit on various statewide advisory boards