LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Gov. Rick Snyder has created a task force to recommend changes to Michigan’s special education system to help special needs children reach their potential.

The task force announced Friday is led by Lt. Gov. Brian Calley, who has a daughter with autism.

Calley recently participated in a statewide listening tour about special education. He says in a statement: “All children deserve a chance to lead self-determined and independent lives.”

Snyder says the Special Education Reform Task Force will “will help us remain focused on putting Michigan’s special needs children and their families front-and-center when considering reforms to this vital component in our educational system.”

Task force members include educators, state officials and advocates for children with special needs. Snyder wants the task force’s recommendations by the end of the year.