Peak presents expansion of vans and adaptive programs to Wasatch County School Board

A representative from Peak (Parents Empowering Abled Kids) updated the Wasatch County School District board on recent gains in transportation and programming for students with special needs. "Parents empowering abled kids — that's what it stands for," said Ain sa, who described Peak's mission to expand recreation, education and employment opportunities for students who otherwise lack access.

Peak said it acquired three accessible vans through fundraising, a Wasatch Community Foundation grant and an anonymous donor, and that the vehicles allow groups of students to reach adaptive recreation programs. "We have three vans now that can — how many students did we say — 19 students — we can get places," Ain sa said, describing how classes can split up or take a full classroom on trips. She told the board Peak serves "over 100 kids" across programs and transition services.

The presentation emphasized partnerships with the National Ability Center in Park City, Soldier Hollow and a local nonprofit, Podium Racing, which runs an adaptive triathlon program. Board members and attendees asked about outreach to Spanish-speaking families; a community member said Peak was actively working with school-level administrators and the Latino Coalition to increase participation. Peak acknowledged gaps and said leaders are meeting with individual schools to recruit Spanish-speaking parents.

Peak also previewed the nonprofit's annual 5K (May 3, 2025) and said it is budgeting for a fourth van and seeking donor support to build a shed to store adaptive equipment. The board and superintendent thanked the presenters; the meeting packet included a one-page highlight sheet for board reference.

The board moved on to its consent and action items after the presentation.