At South Lyon Community Schools, we take immense pride in our commitment to providing exceptional special education programs and services. To ensure that we are not only meeting but exceeding the needs of our families, we actively engage in the Special Education Parent Advisory Committee, better known as PAC.

Our South Lyon Community Schools PAC is a team of two dedicated parent representatives who play a crucial role in advocating for the interests of families who have children with special needs. Our two current representatives, Amanda Fitch and Loni Pryor, represent our school district at the county level through Oakland Schools by attending monthly meetings with PAC members from other Oakland County districts.

Our parent representatives work closely with the director of special education for South Lyon Community Schools, Sue Toth. The connection serves as a vital bridge between the committee and the broader school community. Regular debrief sessions ensure that information obtained from the county level meetings are shared with the district. Together the PAC and the director work toward the overarching mission of the South Lyon Community Schools PAC, which is “to welcome, support and educate families who have children with different abilities. We collaborate within and beyond our school community to empower parents and others to advocate for all children to ensure the finest quality of educational programs and services through South Lyon Community Schools.”

Our PAC has been instrumental in achieving noteworthy accomplishments. We have collaboratively crafted a mission statement for the SLCS PAC, and designed a distinctive South Lyon Community Schools Special Education Department logo. One of our proudest initiatives is the establishment of a monthly activity-based event for the siblings of students with disabilities in our district. Now in its second year, this sibling event has become a source of support and connection for families.

Additionally, our collaboration with building Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) groups has proven impactful in providing valuable insights for planning school events. The PAC has truly become a driving force in enhancing the inclusivity and support systems within our educational community.

While celebrating these achievements, we acknowledge that there is more work to be done. Therefore, we extend an invitation to parents of students with disabilities to consider joining the efforts being led by our PAC. Whether you are seeking information to support your family, possess an advocacy spirit, want to connect with parents on a similar journey, or have a passion for effecting change, your involvement is crucial.

There are various ways you can contribute, and we understand that your time and energy are precious. The South Lyon Community Schools PAC is committed to working within your availability, ensuring that your involvement is meaningful and manageable. To learn more about how you can contribute or to express your interest in joining, please contact Loni Pryor loco84@gmail.com or Amanda Fitch fitcha@slcs.us. Your participation will not only benefit your family but also contribute to the thriving community we are building together.

Join us in shaping a future where every student, regardless of their unique needs, has the opportunity to thrive and succeed. Together we can make a difference!