North Dakota Family Engagement Cabinet

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Family Engagement Cabinet members pose for a group photo on October 21, 2024, in the North Dakota State Capitol building.

Family Engagement Cabinet Members

The purpose of the ND Family Engagement Cabinet is to provide a safe space that allows members from all over the state to share their experience as a parent, guardian, caretaker, or educator in North Dakota. The Cabinet shares advice, ideas, and opinions about how North Dakota families and schools can better work together to support the education of all children.

Family Engagement Cabinet meetings are held at least quarterly. Cabinet members (approximately 25 per term) will work collaboratively with each other, ND Department of Public Instruction (NDDPI) staff, and outside partners as needed, and express views and opinions openly and constructively. The Cabinet will assist NDDPI in facilitating partnerships and collaboration with families and schools. 

Cabinet members are expected to:

  • Attend two face-to-face meetings in Bismarck and participate in virtual meetings throughout the year.
  • Come prepared for each session and work collaboratively with each other, NDDPI staff, and outside partners.
  • Engage in open and respectful dialogue.
  • Actively serve a term of 24 months. Members in good standing may apply for a second term.

2024-2025 Family Engagement Cabinet Members

Cabinet Leadership Team: 

  • Chair Stacy Kilwein, Dickinson

  • Vice Chair Jessi Hegg, Reynolds

  • Secretary Amy Peterson, Mandan

Cabinet Members: 

  • Shelley Ackerman, Tioga

  • *DeAnn Bjornson, Fargo

  • Heather Chatham, Grand Forks

  • *Courtney Davis, Grand Forks

  • Heidi Domier, Casselton

  • *Sarah Gackle, Kulm

  • *Suzanne Kilichowski, Minto

  • *Mike McHugh, Mandan

  • Melissa Leingang, Bismarck

  • Carolyn Morowski, Dickinson

  • Jason Rohr, Jamestown

  • *Melissa Sagness, Bowbells

  • Brooklyn Schaan, Washburn

  • Richard Smith, Dickinson

  • *Chantel Southam, Sherwood

  • Jennifer Wallender, Hazen

*Denotes charter member.

Upcoming Meetings

  • January 2026

Past Meeting Agendas

Family Engagement Cabinet Past Members