Parents with special needs children are sought to serve on a committee that acts as a communication link among parents, teachers, and school administrators. The group, called the Eastern Upper Peninsula Parent Advisory Committee (PAC), will host two events this month to benefit special needs children.

An annual craft show at Soo Township Elementary School will be Saturday, December 6, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Raffles and concessions will be available. Admission costs $1. Vendors may register for the show by calling Dorie France at (906) 293-8691.

The group is also planning its annual Christmas party for all families with special needs children at Washington Elementary School in Sault Ste. Marie Wednesday, December 17, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Donations of gifts are being accepted to be distributed by Santa Claus at the party. Families attending are asked to bring a dish to pass.

Volunteers who serve on the committee help direct families in need of school services, set up training sessions for parents and teachers on special education issues, and promote networking among parents of students with disabilities.

The committee meets the third Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the Eastern Upper Peninsula Intermediate School District office in Sault Ste. Marie. Volunteers are paid mileage to attend meetings.

Parents are sought from the following school districts: Mackinac Island, Les Cheneaux, DeTour, Brimley, Bay Mills Charter, and Whitefish Township.

In 2008, St. Ignace, Engadine, Sault Ste. Marie, and Newberry districts filled seven open seats on the committee.

Each intermediate school district is required by law to have such a committee. The size of each school district determines the number of representatives it must have on the board.

For more information about the committee or to donate toward the children's party, call Ms. France at the telephone number listed above.