State Superintendent's Family Engagement Cabinet

The purpose of the State Superintendent's 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 with State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Kirsten Baesler. 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 in Bismarck at least quarterly, and may also include virtual meetings throughout the year. 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 quarterly face-to-face meetings in Bismarck and potentially 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 18 months. Members in good standing may apply for a second term.

2022-2023 Family Engagement Cabinet Members

• *DeAnn Bjornson, Fargo
• Heather Chatham, Grand Forks
• Amanda Davis, Lincoln
• *Courtney Davis Souvannasacd, Grand Forks
• Heidi Domier, Casselton
• *Kristi Engelstad, West Fargo
• Donna Epperson, Minot
• *Jacqueline Frost-Hodney, Lankin
• *Sarah Gackle, Kulm
• *Sheila Hoffman, Williston
• Molly Johnson, Fargo
• *Suzanne Kilichowski, Minto
• Stacy Kilwein, Dickinson
• Kara Kniert, West Fargo
• *Mike McHugh, Mandan
• Jason Rohr, Jamestown
• *Melissa Sagness, Bowbells
• Katherine Schmit, Kenmare
• *Jayce Schumacher, Grafton
• Richard Smith, Dickinson
• *Chantel Southam, Sherwood
• *Joy Sparks, Tioga
• *Maxine Thunder Hawk, Fort Yates
• Danielle Trottier, Thompson
• *Angie Waletzko, Lisbon
• Jennifer Wallender, Hazen
• Anne Williamson, Minot

*Denotes charter member.

The current term is July 1, 2022 through December 31, 2023.