The Parent Information Network (PIN) is an initiative of the Arizona Department of Education to involve families of special education students. Led by parents of children with special needs, PIN provides information and technical assistance to families and educators throughout the state. The primary role is to facilitate the volunteer steering committee, Parents Are Liaisons to Schools (PALS), a 21-member volunteer group of parents of special needs children from diverse backgrounds and communities who are appointed for 3-year terms. PALS members offer: parental feedback on special education topics; update local parents and special education directors with information disseminated by the department of education, including legislation and funding issues; give assistance and support to other PALS members; and encourage parents to become aware of their rights and responsibilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The concerns and suggestions of parents have been used in state planning and development of new initiatives, including a conflict resolution system, grant funds for parent involvement activities at the local level, parent training workshops, and an information clearinghouse that includes videotape and print material. In partnership with the special education director, PALS members develop an action plan tailored to the unique needs of their local school districts. PIN specialists are parents hired as part-time private contractors by the Arizona Department of Education to provide information, technical assistance, and training workshops to PALS, other parents, and educators. (TD)