A message to the members of the Michigan Parent, Advocate & Attorney Coalition
Publication date: November 12, 2024
As we continue to digest national and statewide news, while also processing the coming transition of administrations and legislatures, we stay grounded in the resolve of our purpose.
MiPAAC strives to be an inclusive space where students are centered – where parents & advocates supporting them in their educational journey can “come as you are” so that you can learn, connect, and engage in ways that are meaningful for you and your family.
Our focus is on students with disabilities within the public education system to increase opportunities, improve outcomes, and raise expectations while ensuring their rights are protected and upheld. Recognizing education as a core social determinant of health and economic mobility, our focus on this system includes ensuring the health, safety, and well-being for ALL students through a high-quality, inclusive education experience.
Our collective work is to catalyze systemic change in transforming Michigan’s public education system to one that ensures a pathway to prosperity for ALL.
The population we serve is not new to challenge, transitions, and the constant fight to ensure civil and human rights. The pursuit of justice in any space is relentless – this especially holds true for education justice. While this requires us to be perpetually resilient, we can find strength in our shared aims and shared purpose through collective action.
This means we continually reaffirm our commitment and focus on creating equitable education pathways for ALL learners, with a particular focus on students with disabilities.
We will continue
We will continue to center equity throughout our work to build and bridge power to effect systemic change while amplifying the voice of lived experience to transform Michigan’s education system to one where ALL students have the opportunity to succeed.
- We will continue to hold space for diverse experiences while we support our more than 300-member coalition.
- We will continue to inform members and build our shared knowledge.
- We will continue to uplift a shared policy agenda that reflects the barriers experienced by those most impacted within the system.
- We will continue to work to mobilize around priority issues.
- We will continue to move forward from aspiration to reality by demanding concrete solutions to wicked problems.
- We will continue to celebrate our progress that has been achieved while boldly confronting any challenges before us.
- We will continue to show up every day as strong advocates for students with disabilities in Michigan.
- We will continue to RISE together as we work to close gaps – in educational opportunities and outcomes – for students with disabilities.
Our collective work in MiPAAC matters.
Together, we will use our advocacy as a unifying force to build momentum and keep pushing for change where needed.
I am grateful to be on this journey together with you.
In solidarity.
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About MiPAAC
Since its inception, the Michigan Parent, Advocate & Attorney Coalition (MiPAAC), powered by the Autism Alliance of Michigan has been a driving force, bringing together parents, advocates, and attorneys to create a unified voice for special education advocacy. Through workshops, forums, and direct advocacy, MiPAAC has educated and empowered families to navigate the complexities of the special education system. Our members have collaborated to influence policy changes, raise awareness, and build a stronger community of support for students across the state.
We are celebrating the 4th anniversary of MiPAAC!
Over the past four years, MiPAAC has grown into a robust statewide network of over 300 members, each dedicated to ensuring that students with disabilities receive the education and support they deserve.
Help us grow our advocacy movement!
Are you a parent, advocate, or attorney dedicated to student-centered advocacy?
Join MiPAAC! mipaac.org/join-mipaac