Board hears APAC’s new logo, issues vote of concurrence on American Indian education plan

The Rockford Area Schools board received a presentation from the American Indian Parent Advisory Committee (APAC) on a new logo and formally accepted the committee’s vote of concurrence on the district’s 2025–26 American Indian Education Program.

Barry Buffie, the district APAC liaison, introduced APAC leadership and asked Jessica Berault (chair) and Elizabeth Blackhawk (vice chair) to speak. Blackhawk described the logo’s symbolism: four colors representing directions/stages of life; a sweetgrass braid encircling the name to signify community and strength; and a feather used as the letter "I" to represent knowledge and honor. She said student artwork and community input informed the design.

Buffie also noted the committee’s year‑long review of goals and implementation strategies in the American Indian Education aid application, including the six focus areas required by Minnesota statute (post‑secondary preparation, academic achievement, culturally responsive curriculum, identity reinforcement, intercultural awareness and assuring the supplement does not replace existing services). "Based on this review, the American Indian Parent Advisory Committee is issuing a vote of concurrence for the 2025–26 American Indian Education Program," a committee representative said.

APAC announced a community feast and performance scheduled for March 12 at the high school featuring indigenous foods and visiting dancers and drummers; the event is intended for students and the broader community. Board members thanked APAC leaders for their work and the board accepted the APAC vote of concurrence.

The board asked administration to circulate details about the March 12 event once logistics are finalized.