Parent Committee Information

AIPAC: American Indian Parent Advisory Council

American Indian Parent Advisory Committee


Minnesota Statutes, section 124D.78, subdivision 1, states that a school district in which there are ten or more American Indian students enrolled and each American Indian school must establish an American Indian education parent advisory committee. Commonly referred to as American Indian Parent Advisory Committees (AIPACs), these committees serve in an advisory role and help ensure that American Indian students are receiving culturally relevant and equitable educational opportunities. These committees are critical to the achievement and success of American Indian students statewide, and offer a valuable opportunity to strengthen district and parent partnerships. (- the Minnesota Department of Education)

AIPAC Membership


AIPACs must be comprised primarily of parents of American Indian students within the district. American Indian secondary students and American Indian district staff are also eligible to serve on the committee, as are American Indian community members. (-the Minnesota Department of Education)

Detroit Lakes AIPAC

The current Detroit Lakes AIPAC is:


Chair : Emily Buermann

Vice Chair: Dani Leach

Secretary: Jena Fingalson

Parent Representative: Melyssa Belland

Parent Representative: Rochelle Christianson

Parent Representative: (currently being filled)

Staff Representative: Rhonda Fode

Staff Representative: Joe Carrier

Staff Representative: Mike Swan


Parent Advisory Committee

2019