The Owatonna Public Schools Board Meeting held on November 25, 2024, addressed several key issues, including public concerns regarding student safety and parental rights in special education.

The meeting commenced with a recognition of students from various schools, who were invited to take a group photo and received "Owatonna Proud" stickers for their participation. Following this, Superintendent Elstad highlighted the connection between school patrol roles and student leadership, noting the positive impact of such experiences on students' future endeavors.

The public forum segment featured several speakers, beginning with Sarah Chandler, a parent of a special education student. Ms. Chandler expressed her distress over her daughter’s emotional struggles at school, including her reluctance to attend. She requested the opportunity to visit her daughter’s classroom to better understand her situation, citing a lack of communication and support from the school administration.

Jeff Chandler, also a parent, echoed his wife’s concerns, advocating for their right to observe their daughter’s classroom environment, especially given her non-verbal status. He emphasized the importance of parental involvement in ensuring the safety and well-being of their child.

April St. Martin, a community member, supported the Chandlers' request by referencing school policy that encourages parental visits to classrooms. She urged the board to adhere to their own policies and facilitate the Chandlers' request for classroom observation, highlighting the need for transparency and communication in addressing parental concerns.

The meeting then transitioned to reports from board members, indicating a shift towards administrative updates and discussions on ongoing initiatives within the district.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of parental engagement in special education and the need for clear communication between the school administration and families to ensure student safety and well-being. The board is expected to consider the concerns raised and explore ways to enhance support for students with special needs in future discussions.