American Indian Parent Advisory Committee votes non‑concurrence, urges Brainerd Public Schools to fix hiring, data and Indigenous Peoples Day implementation

The American Indian Parent Advisory Committee (APAC) told the Brainerd School Board on Feb. 10, 2025, that it had voted unanimously to record a finding of non‑concurrence and submitted four interrelated recommendations asking the district to improve compliance with state statute, data access and accuracy, hiring practices for Indigenous positions and supports for Indigenous Peoples Day instruction.

APAC members told the board the committee had used the statutory rubric and updated 2023 state guidance when evaluating district practice and concluded the district had not met several statutory requirements. "We have voted non‑concurrence unanimously as a committee and have a series of recommendations," said Charles Blacklance, an APAC member and parent. "This is fundamentally about system change that is rooted... and supported from the very top leaves of leadership."

Why it matters: Minnesota statute requires meaningful APAC engagement in Indigenous education hiring and program evaluation, and districts must respond in writing to APAC recommendations within 60 days. APAC said statutory obligations are intended to improve outcomes for American Indian students and that the Board's written response is required under state rules.

Key findings and recommendations

1) Hiring…