The Secondary Transitional Experience Program (STEP) provides on-the-job 
training work experience to 125 students with physical and mental 
disabilities. STEP is a partnership between Illinois Department of 
Rehabilitation Services and SPEED. The program goals are to help the students 
develop desirable work habits and realistic career goals; to teach 
pre-employment skills; and to help students develop the social and 
interpersonal skills needed to maintain employment.

STEP is funded by the Illinois Department of Rehabilitation Services and is 
also available to SPEED's member high school districts.  Students who 
receive STEP services must be certified with the Department of Rehabilitation 
Services and be at least 16 years of age.

SPEED and its member high school districts are responsible for providing the 
certified staff to develop community training sites and to monitor students' 
progress. STEP provides funding for job coaching and transportation for 
students who are in community training experiences.  The program is monitored 
by certified school staff and the Transition Specialist who is located in 
the SPEED Center building.