Introducing PACES: The Parents Advancing Change in Education Systems Program

The Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM), in collaboration with our grassroots coalition MiPAAC, has launched a transformative initiative to engage and empower parents of children and youth with disabilities receiving special education: the Parents Advancing Change in Education Systems (PACES) program. 

Led by AAoM’s Education Pillar, PACES kicked off in September 2024, following a competitive application process, with 15 dedicated participants from across the state. These parents bring a wide range of experiences and represent children of varying ages, offering diverse perspectives that will enrich the program’s efforts to drive meaningful change in special education.

The primary motivation for joining the cohort was a shared desire to enhance advocacy skills and bridge the gap between families and the special education system. Many parents expressed feeling overwhelmed or unprepared to navigate the complexities of special education, while others were driven by a commitment to systemic change and transparency. Collectively, these parents sought to gain knowledge, build confidence, and become more effective advocates—not just for their own children, but also for families seeking equitable education for all students with disabilities. This shared focus on learning, policy reform, and collaboration underscores the heart of the PACES program.

Kristin, the mother of a 5th grader who is new to the special education system, shared her experience:

My family is new to special education, and I have learned through an incredibly tumultuous year how vital it is to understand how to navigate the system. I collected feedback from fellow parents, curated research from a range of special education resources and advocates, and saw major gaps and opportunities to improve our policies and systems. I ‘don’t know what I don’t know’ and really want to learn from people in this space who can guide, shape, lead, and share all we can do to reform special education for our families.

PACES is designed to develop a deeper understanding of the special education landscape and related disability policy advocacy issues facing families in Michigan. Participants will gain skills and tools to amplify their voices and drive impactful change in Michigan’s education system. Through a comprehensive curriculum covering special education law, disability rights, and practical advocacy tactics, participants will engage in activities like campaign planning, public speaking, and coalition building.

By the end of the program, PACES aims to create a ripple effect, with each participant using their newly gained skills to lead change efforts in their local school districts and communities. Ultimately, this program aligns with AAoM’s mission of fostering equity, accessibility, and improved educational outcomes for all students with disabilities in Michigan.

As we continue to move forward, we invite you to stay engaged with the PACES program and support our mission by becoming involved in local advocacy efforts. Together, we can ensure that every student, including those with disabilities, receives the quality education they deserve.

paces heat map (1)
Heat Map of PACES Cohort 1

About the Autism Alliance of Michigan 

The Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM) is a 501(c)(3) organization serving as a trusted ally and partner for thousands of families across the state. AAoM’s mission is to lead efforts to raise expectations and expand opportunities for people connected to autism across their lifespan. The organization’s Education pillar drives initiatives that address systemic barriers to education, focuses on student-centered advocacy, and educates families on related topics – working towards its goal to make Michigan a top 10 state for special education outcomes. For help finding resources, providers and information contact our AAoM Navigators at 877-463-2266 (AAOM) or email at navigator@aaomi.org. More information about AAoM’s Education pillar can be found at www.autismallianceofmichigan.org/education-initiatives.

###

Are you a parent, advocate, or attorney dedicated to student-centered advocacy?

Join MiPAAC! mipaac.org/join-mipaac

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *