In light of the announcement of our new director of special services, Dr. Sarah Knudsen, plus my recent conversations with frustrated foster parents, I decided to look for the resources Owatonna and ISD 761 have for parents and their children with special needs.
This is a great starting point: https://www.isd761.org/district-services/special-services/special-services .
For all children not yet attending kindergarten, the website reports, “If you have concerns about your child’s development you can call (507) 444-7900 or make a referral online at MN Help Me Grow. Screening, evaluation and services are free to students who meet eligibility criteria.”
For parents of children with special needs that want to have more active participation with the school district, you can attend the advisory council meetings: https://www.isd761.org/district-services/special-services/special-education-advisory-council-seac
Other community resources if you are searching for help: https://fernbrook.org/ and https://www.steelecountymn.gov/public_health/index.php . There are other wonderful counseling centers in Owatonna as well!
Navigating this world of information, assessments, eligibility, and scheduling can be a long and challenging process. Please continue to work for your children with respectful persistence. You know your child best, trust your parental intuition and press on for them! Thank you mamas, dads, foster parents, grandparents, guardians and caregivers!
Elizabeth for Owatonna Schools 
Elizabeth, You are really doing a great job of keeping the community informed. If you need anything from me, let me know.
Ray
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