Since Title IV of the Indian Education Act of 1972 stipulates organization of parent advisory committees for input in program development and since Federal aid to American Indian education has been misused and mismanaged in the past, it is essential that parent advisory committees be trained to effectively utilize legislation affecting Indian education. Indian parents need to be thoroughly acquainted with the Johnson O'Malley Act of 1934, Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, and Title IV of the Indian Education Act of 1972 if they are to effectively serve as advisory committee members. Generally, Indian parents do not understand their rights, the kinds of information they should have access to, or how they might organize to be effective. Having tried a variety of parent training methods, the Coalition of Indian Controlled School Boards has found that sending a specialist into the home where he can meet informally with small groups has produced the best results. Generally, the specialist presents an historical review of the laws; itemizes the areas in which parents should be involved; and details legal rights relative to program operations and expenditures. Development of a statewide organization of parent advisory committees to plan for use of Johnson O'Malley funds and to produce a legislative handbook on Indian education is recommended. (JC)