Parent Advisory Committee

Introduction

The Parent Advisory Committee is a group of parents of children with disabilities. Members are recommended by their public school agency for appointment by the WISD School Board. We meet the third Tuesday of every month during the school year to discuss special education programs, issues and ideas on how to be of assistance to parents.

The Parent Advisory Committee is mandated by Michigan law. It is our responsibility to review and provide input on the WISD's special education plan.

Most parents feel overwhelmed at some point in their journey through the special education system. We want to remind parents that they are the best advocates for their children. The importance of parent input and involvement in a student's education is emphasized by both Federal Law IDEA and Michigan's Rules for Special Education.

We are happy to share our experience and help parents trying to find their way through the special education maze. We welcome questions and concerns, and refer parents to appropriate administrators, school personnel, and support groups.

The WISD Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) exists to serve two basic functions:

• To advise the WISD Board of Education on matters pertaining to special education; and
• To fulfill those responsibilities designated in PA 451. The PAC also facilitates communication, awareness, and involvement between parents, local districts, Boards of Education/Boards of Directors and the Intermediate School District.

• PAC Fact Sheet