Adults with Disabilities programs are designed to serve adults with physical, developmental or cognitive disabilities by encouraging inclusion in the community and providing educational, social and recreational opportunities for participants. Programming can include development of classes and activities specifically for adults with disabilities as well as providing reasonable accommodations for adults with disabilities to participate in any Community Education activity.
MCEA established the Community Education Network on Disabilities (CEND) which is made up of community educators and adults with disabilities advocates from throughout Minnesota. CEND meets quarterly to network, participate in staff development opportunities, share program ideas, problem-solve and develop legislative action plans. Members work together to strengthen programs, connect adults with disabilities to their community and provide accommodations that will ensure successful learning experiences for all participants.
Here is a listing of CEND member groups and Community Ed. programs for adults with disabilities in MN
CEND Leadership Team:
Chair – Lindsay Richins
Chair Elect – Madeline Dubois-Clinton
Treasurer – Laura Campbell
Communications – Lindsay Richins
Tuesday, September 26, 2023- 10am-12pm (Virtual)
Tuesday, November 21, 2023 – 10am-12pm (Virtual)
Tuesday, February 27, 2024 – 10am-12pm (Virtual)
Friday, April 26, 2024 – Annual Conference 9am-4pm (In person)-Schaar’s Bluff Gathering Center
For questions about CEND contact Lindsay Richins, 2023-2024 Chair at: lindsay.richins@minnetonkaschools.org or call her at 952-401-6898
Special Education staff
Transition program staff for 18-21 year olds
As students with disabilities age out of K-12 programs, the adults with disabilities program offered through Community Education is a natural transition.
Group homes and employment centers for people with disabilities can be helpful in promoting upcoming classes and activities. They can be a great resource on what skills, knowledge or experiences adults with disabilities need to live more fulfilling lives.
124D.56 COMMUNITY EDUCATION PROGRAM REVENUE; ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES
124D.19 COMMUNITY EDUCATION PROGRAMS; ADVISORY COUNCIL.
Certain districts have been given the opportunity to receive aid from the State of Minnesota and also to match that aid with a local tax levy. Districts are also allowed to charge fees for classes and activities. Programs strive to keep fees as low as possible in order for activities to be accessible to participants.