For over two decades, parents of children with disabilities in Massachusetts have made significant contributions to improving the education of their children through PACs. Since 1986, Massachusetts state law has required all public school districts to maintain a Parent Advisory Council open to all parents of students identified as eligible for special education, as well as other interested parties.
The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education provides guidance to PACs so that each and every PAC will have access to knowledge of what the law allows them to do. The guidance document updated in March of 2010 provides:
- A clear, concise description of the basic requirements that apply to PACs;
- the key components to address in meeting those requirements;
- and some options for practices, activities, and resources that might assist a PAC in making positive contributions to special education in their community.
Interested persons may view and download a copy of the guidance document here.