The Arc Michigan

01/29/2026

Say hello to Michelle Driscoll, Policy Coordinator, our resident expert on law and policy!

Michelle appreciates the opportunity to apply her advocacy experience and passion for supporting families as they navigate the complexities of the special education system. Working with dedicated colleagues who share both their knowledge and their heart with families every day makes her proud to be part of Michigan Alliance for Families

Throughout the year, get to know our team members who use their lived experience navigating special education to support families across Michigan every day as we celebrate twenty years of special education mentoring.

01/29/2026

01/29/2026

Medicaid has been there at every stage of River’s life. From a months-long NICU stay to the therapies and equipment he needs today. Stories like this help show lawmakers what Medicaid means for families. If Medicaid has played a role in your life or the life of someone you love, share your story. Your experience helps show why these supports must be protected.



Link in comments below. ⬇️

01/29/2026

🎉 February is packed with fun at Arc Allegan! Join the excitement!

01/27/2026

Promise made. Promise kept.

Today, I witnessed what it truly means to say “we’re here for life.”

The Forever Plan at The Arc of Oakland County is more than a program— it’s a promise. And today, that promise meant showing up at the very end of someone’s journey.

It was heartbreaking and beautiful all at once. It reminded me of a larger, urgent need: ensuring that no one passes away alone.

This experience opened my eyes to the importance of presence, of advocates, connection, and community, especially for individuals with developmental disabilities. I’m learning more about hospital-based volunteer models and thoughtfully considering how The Arc might expand opportunities for hospital visits and meaningful connection here in Oakland County.

This work requires care, intention, and the very best people. I can’t stop thinking about those who are alone and without advocates.

This week reminded me that presence matters. And promises matter even more. 💛

Learn more about the Forever Plan here: https://tinyurl.com/mtpykupn

A reflection from Dawn Calnen, Executive Director of The Arc of Oakland County

01/27/2026

Direct care workers deserve fair pay—and providers need the resources to deliver it.

Recent state guidance reiterates that DCW wage increases must be paid in addition to minimum wage, including for overtime and indirect time. While the intent is positive, many providers have not received the funding needed to support these requirements.

Clarity is important. So is follow-through.

We’ll continue advocating for solutions that work—for workers, providers, and the people who rely on care every day.

01/23/2026

Gov. Affairs January 23, 2026 -

The Michigan State House and Senate gaveled back in for the second year of the 2025-2026 legislative session on Wednesday, January 14. The House and Senate have largely returned to a normal legislative schedule, conducting committee hearings and moving bills on the floor.

01/23/2026

👍 Data shows more Michigan high schoolers are taking advantage of Personal Curriculum to get their diploma.

📌Middle school and high school families are invited to join Rashell Bowerman from Michigan Department of Education on February 10 to learn more about this valuable tool that can help students earn their diploma.

The Personal Curriculum option allows for certain modifications to the Michigan's high school graduation requirements and personalize their schedule to make the most of their high school years.

🧷 RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/bdz9xma5 today to save your spot to learn more about this important topic.

01/16/2026

Not all disabilities are visible — many people live with intellectual, developmental, mental health, or chronic conditions you can’t see.

💙 Kindness and understanding go a long way.

01/12/2026

The return from break is a good time to collect data about the possible need for Extended School Year services.

While all students may lose some skills over break, the important distinction is whether the student with a disability will experience more regression and will take significantly more time to recoup lost skills than student without disabilities.

Regression is one just one of the needs to consider when discussing ESY.
As with all IEP decisions, the IEP Team must base ESY decisions on data, and that includes data recorded and provided by parents. The decision is individualized and data based.

More on ESY on our website: https://www.michiganallianceforfamilies.org/extended-school-year/

Available from MDE: “Individualized Education Program (IEP) Team Consideration of the Need for Extended School Year (ESY) Services” includes a worksheet to assist IEP Teams.

01/09/2026

Real change starts with everyday advocacy in our own communities. State and local leaders make decisions about services and policies that affect people with disabilities. Your local chapter of The Arc knows what’s happening on the ground and can help you get involved where it matters most. Find a chapter near you and connect with them to learn how you can make a difference this year. https://bit.ly/4pLyEx9

01/09/2026

✨New year, new opportunities! ✨
People with disabilities want the same things as everyone else: meaningful work, strong relationships, and the chance to contribute. People with disabilities are just as productive and reliable as other workers — and companies with inclusive hiring practices often see higher retention rates.

✨When we embrace inclusive employment, Michigan’s workforce and communities grow stronger together.