A Dedicated Advocate for Education for All

Lucie Skjefte for School Board 2027

With over a decade of experience in design, marketing, and community engagement, she is dedicated to empowering American Indian students. Lucie’s background includes serving as Chair of the American Indian Parent Advisory Committee for MPS since 2018, advocating for student well-being and supporting families. Her unique blend of design expertise and advocacy drives her passion for community empowerment and enhancing educational experiences.

Lucie's educational journey began within Minneapolis Public School, where she attended Hale, Field, Anthony, and South High School as part of the All Nations Program. She was part of the inaugural 9th-grade team led by the late Cece Saddler, Tiffany Ingham Moore, and Brian Fitzgerald. Their mentorship in those early years impacted Lucie, shaping her academic path and personal growth.

South High School, All Nations Program, is part of the Best Practice Site identified in the MPS's Memorandum of Agreement with Metropolitan Urban Indian Directors (MUID) & Phillips Indian Educators (PIE). 

Lucie pursued higher education at Minneapolis College of Art and Design and later gained valuable teaching experience in Graphic Design at Minneapolis Community and Technical College (MCTC). Today, her commitment to education continues as she works to enhance the educational experience for all Minneapolis Public School District students. Lucie’s passion for education is further reflected in her son, Animikii’s journey within the district, where he has attended Burroughs, Justice Page, and is now a 9th grader at Southwest High School.

In Her Role as AIPAC Chair –
Vision for American Indian Students

The American Indian Parent Advisory Committee (AIPAC) in the Minneapolis Public School District is a collective of elected members, including parents, teachers, and students. As part of the Indian Education Act of 1972, AIPAC works closely with the American Indian Education Director and Family Engagement Coordinator to serve as an advisory body for the American Indian Education program.

As the Chair of AIPAC, Lucie is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment that nurtures and supports the growth of American Indian students. She collaborates with the Executive Committee, follows committee bylaws, and ensures efficient decision-making processes. Lucie develops meeting agendas aligned with AIPAC objectives and leads general parent committee meetings, promoting collaboration and inclusivity. She also signs official documents, such as federal funding applications and evaluation reports, and serves as a supportive member of all standing committees within AIPAC. Lucie adapts to evolving needs and fulfills additional duties to contribute to the committee's success and advance the vision for American Indian students' success. 

The future of American Indian education lies in integrating our cultural knowledge with modern advancements. I envision embedding our cultural knowledge systems within the core curriculum to foster a sense of belonging for all students. Language revitalization will be a priority, and STEM programs will be designed with cultural relevance to prepare students for college and careers, supported by community partnerships and resources. Technology will bridge geographical distances, connecting students to their cultural roots. This student-centered approach, grounded in community involvement, aims to achieve educational equity and excellence while honoring our unique identities.

MPS Achievements

  • School Board Director - Appointed November 2024

    • Minneapolis Public Schools (2024 – present)

  • American Indian Parent Advisory Committee

    • Minneapolis Public Schools ( 2018 –  2024)

  • District Parent Advisory Committee

    • Minneapolis Public Schools (2018 – 2020)

  • MPS American Rescue Plan Stakeholder Committee

    • Minneapolis Public Schools (2020)