Programs for children with special needs? (Minneapolis, St. Paul: home, public schools, costs)

[ewest0722]

Hello, my husband and I are considering a move (for professional reasons) to Rochester, MN. I was there visiting this past week and fell in love with the city. It had the same feel of my small hometown in Central Coast California- of course, without the snow. But if I loved it with the snow, I can't imagine I wouldn't like it in those non-winter months. Plus we have two children - one in 3rd grade, the other a toddler. I have heard that Rochester is a great place to raise a family, with great public schools, not to mention better housing costs compared to what I'm used to!

My only concern is about my toddler who experienced a traumatic health ordeal about two years ago and has since required in-home supportive services for her medical need. In California, my husband is acutally employed through the state to administer her paramedical needs at home (called In-Home Supportive Services). Basically with this program, we have the option to employ someone from outside the home to do it, but we chose to let it be my husband who works with her instead. Is there a similar program available in Rochester? Thank you so much, your insight is appreciated.

[oconnorcm3]

May I suggest that you contact Arc (Association of Retarded Citizens) of Southeastern Minnesota, head office in Rochester? They have been very helpful with our planned retirement to Minnesota with our special needs son. They can no doubt answer any questions that you have or point you in the correct direction. I would also look at the Bear Creek Services web site and consider contacting them for ideas on services for your daughter. Both web site links are included below.

Rochester is a wonderful location for children (with special health/educational needs or normal development). My son has been a long-distant patient at The Mayo Clinic for nearly 17-years and we couldn't be happier with the services. I grew up close to Rochester, in Winona, about 45 minutes away, on the Mississippi River. Southeastern Minnesota is a lovely area, education in Minnesota is excellent, special needs services are some of the best in the U.S. and, if you can just remember that winter is only a few months long, you'll be fine. Even better is if you have relatives in California (or some other warm spot) whom you can visit during the cold months in Minnesota, you'll be even happier!

Arc Southeastern Minnesota

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Best of luck with your decisions.

Mari

[golfgal]

I second contacting ARC-they are a wealth of information and can be of great assistance. I know the St. Paul/Minneapolis chapter has something similar to what you are using in CA.