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Advocacy Committee

Leadership • Advocacy • Systemic Voice

ADVOCACY COMMITTEE & RESOURCES

Welcome to the central hub for MAASE policy priorities, active legislative tracking, and member resources. Discover ways to engage with lawmakers, review key updates on special education mandates, and elevate our collective voice across Michigan.

🚨 Action Alert: IDEA Part B Public Comment
Public Comment Window Open
March 18, 2026 – April 17, 2026 (closes at 5:00 p.m. EST)

As required by federal law, the Annual State Application under Part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) for Federal Fiscal Year 2026 is available for public review.

Why This Matters

This is a critical opportunity to ensure federal resources align with student outcomes. Your voice helps shape priorities, strengthen delivery systems, and highlight essential needs statewide.

📝 MAASE Public Comment Template

Members are invited to adapt this official template for local submissions.

Access Template

How to Review & Submit Comment

2. Submit via Email

MDE-OSE-Public-Comment@michigan.gov (Subject: Federal Application 2026)

3. Fax / Mail

Fax: (517) 241-7128
Mail: MDE OSE, P.O. Box 30008, Lansing, MI 48909

Active Legislative Tracking & Priorities

Current State Measures:

  • School Aid Budget (FY 2026-27): Monitoring special education cost reimbursements and infrastructure streams.
  • House & Senate Bills: Following credentialing parameters, emergency visual support rule reviews, and early intervention funding definitions.

Federal & Regulatory Focus:

  • IDEA & OSE Rulemaking: Tracking federal state performance targets and advising on rule changes for eligibility definitions.

About the Advocacy Committee

MAASE maintains a proactive advocacy stance focused on protecting funding allocations, lowering administrative burdens, supporting workforce retention, and securing full federal funding mandates under IDEA.

Connect Members: Link special education leaders directly to active legislative and policy issues.
Systemic Voice: Bridge field realities to MDE decision-makers and state leaders.
Legislative Action: Provide direct, structured opportunities to engage state lawmakers.

Find Your Legislators

Connect directly with elected leadership across your specific voting districts.

Governor's Policy Liaison:
Emma Young (Deputy Director)
Email Emma

Committee Leadership

Karlie Parker

Karlie Parker

Muskegon Area ISD
kparker@muskegonisd.org
Amanda Unger

Amanda Unger

North Service Unit
ungera@reeths-puffer.org
Committee Chairs: Kathy Barker, Dave Krantz, Karlie Parker, & Amanda Unger
Legislative Liaison: Abby Cypher (MASA/MAISA)

Committee Overview Video

Hear Erin Senkowski share more about committee goals.

The Michigan Association of Administrators of Special Education (MAASE) is a statewide network of educational leaders advancing equitable outcomes for students with disabilities through leadership, collaboration, and advocacy.