American Indian Parent Advisory Committee asks board to sustain five-year effort to close achievement gaps

The American Indian Parent Advisory Committee (APAC) presented a 2025 resolution to the board on March 18 urging sustained, five-year actions to address persistent achievement gaps for American Indian students in Saint Paul Public Schools.

Opalina (introduced as a parent and APAC chair) and other APAC representatives summarized the committee's recommendations: reduce American Indian absenteeism by 10 percent at each school annually, decrease disciplinary referrals by 10 percent at each school annually, achieve measurable reading and math growth for American Indian students by 10 percent each year for five years, and increase American Indian staff districtwide by 25 percent with particular emphasis on an additional assistant principal at the American Indian Magnet School (AIMS).

APAC representatives asked the district to continue funding roles they said have demonstrated impact, including an American Indian attendance intervention specialist and an American Indian curriculum TOSA (teacher on special assignment). They also requested that building principals track attendance and prioritize supports, ensure social workers attend student assistance meetings and that APAC receive yearly updates on progress.

Superintendent Tyne acknowledged the presentation and noted that the district has implemented initiatives and seen positive shifts, but APAC representatives and board members said more sustained effort and monitoring are needed.

Ending: The board heard APAC's resolution and thanked members for the presentation; the presenters were told there is a formal response path spelled out in Minnesota statute (APAC presenters and Superintendent referenced a compliance pathway under "Minnesota State Statutes 2024, section 124D.78") and that APAC will continue to receive district follow-up through those channels.