I have a doctorate in clinical psychology with an emphasis on child psychology.
My favorite thing about the Rosenberg Center is our unique multi-disciplinary evaluation approach to assessing children. It ensures that all aspects of a child's development is understood and we can make the best recommendations.
I have worked at the Rosenberg Center almost four years.
In my free time I love being outside with my kids and going new place with them. I also like playing and watching sports.
The scariest thing I have ever done? Hmmm...I don't know. If I am being honest, giving birth comes to mind.
What makes me happy? 1. Dates with my husband 2. Traveling 3. Running 4. Reading 5. A nice glass of red wine and chocolate
My favorite TV show or movie? I rarely watch TV. I love movies, but I can't remember the last one I saw that wasn't for kids!
The last two books I read were Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn and Different Dream Parenting by Jolene Philo.
The one food I could eat forever is pizza, but I'd also really like a DQ blizzard to go with it!
If I could fly anywhere in the world I say island hopping around Hawaii sounds pretty great.
The best advice I have is "Do your best, leave the rest."
Most people don't know that I speak Spanish, although more and more I get the "use it or lose it" principle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to participate in this program?
This program is designed for parents of young children with developmental disabilities and for adults with disabilities.
What is the time commitment required of those who are chosen to participate in this program?
Participants are required to attend eight weekend sessions (September through May with no session in December). The sessions run from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Day One and from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Day Two. (Note: Sessions are held on Friday and Saturday except in March when the session is held on Sunday and Monday.)
Where are the weekend sessions held?
All the sessions will be held in the Marriott Hotel in Bloomington
Is there a fee to attend this eight-month training?
There is no charge to attend. The cost for those selected to partici-pate is covered in part by a grant from the Department of Health & Human Services, Administration on Developmental Disabilities to the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities.
Do I have to pay for my overnight accommodations and travel expenses?
Overnight accommodations are provided for those who drive a distance to attend. Class members are matched and housed in double occupancy rooms. Mileage reimbursement is also available to class members. Refreshment breaks, two lunches and one dinner are provided during each weekend session.
Is there financial assistance available to help pay for respite/child care or personal care attendants?
While the Partners program does not provide on-site services, a reimbursement allowance is provided for those needing assistance.
Is there work to be done between monthly sessions?
After each session a homework assignment, that builds on and supports the topics addressed, must be completed by each class member and turned in at the following session.
Who does the training?
Speakers are local and national subject matter experts or practitioners.
How are class participants selected?
A Review Committee, which includes Partners graduates and representatives from the Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, will select participants based on several criteria. Class size is limited to 40 members.
Why take the class?
Graduates find that they learn how to work effectively with schools, government agencies, and community groups. They can take what they have learned in the program and use it to create better living situations and outcomes for themselves or their children and for their communities as a whole.
What do participants gain?
Information
Inspiration
A powerful network of new friends, supporters, resources, and mentors
Advocacy/Self-Advocacy, leadership, and communication skills
Knowledge about how government works, rights for people with disabilities, how to connect with and be heard by legislators, how to work with other individuals and organizations to create change
How and when do I apply to the program?
Adults with disabilities and parents of children with disabilities are eligible to apply. Applications are available on this website in a printable or online format. They can also be received each year by request to Carol Schoeneck, GTS, via email (cschoeneck@mngts.org ) or phone (metro: 651-223-5307, non-metro: 800-569-6878, ext. 205). Applications are accepted May-mid-July. Accepted applicants will be informed in August. The program runs from September-May each year.
What does Partners in Policymaking require from participants?
Partners is a commitment to attend eight weekend sessions, practice new skills in a comfortable and safe environment, build a network of people from diverse cultural backgrounds and life experiences, and learn from national experts who share a vision and values. Participants commit to attending all eight two-day sessions (usually on Friday and Saturdays), being active class participants, behaving respectfully, and doing monthly homework.
Do people find this program worthwhile?
More than 850 people have participated in this program. Many report that it has changed their lives and/or the lives of their children.
Also look for Partners in Policymaking youtube videos, talk to a Partners in Policymaking graduate (call the GTS office at 651-223-5307 if you don’t know one and we will connect you to one), and look through the information on this site. We hope that, if Partners is a good fit for you, we will see your application in the next batch and get to know you in the years ahead.
Parent Self-Care:
Let’s be honest, parenting is one of the toughest jobs there is! Of course it’s fun and rewarding, yet it can be tiring, patience-testing, and downright stressful. Research continually indicates that parent health is associated with positive child adjustment and wellbeing. This is one of the many reasons it is important for parents to balance their children’s needs with their own. Here are just a few ways to engage in self-care.
Exercise: run, yoga class, bike, walk, better yet exercise with a friend
Read something pleasurable: a book, magazine, newspaper
Join a club: book club, cooking club, parent club
Go on dates with spouse/significant other
Spend time with friends
Connect with other adults or parents
Laugh, find humor in daily life
Meet spiritual needs
Sleep/nap
Have a few trusted babysitters on hand
Swap babysitting with a parent in your neighborhood
Watch or go to a movie
Go out for coffee or a meal
Spend time outdoors or in natural light
Get a massage, pedicure/manicure, or facial
Eat a well-balanced diet and enjoy a treat
Keep up with routine medical care
Journal
Keep up hobbies or learn something new
