The Focker family of 'Meet the Parents' fame just keeps expanding its dysfunctional circle: Now, they've ensnared Oscar nominee and Golden Globe winner Laura Dern.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, Universal Pictures and Tribeca Productions has signed the actress to appear in the series' third installment, tentatively titled 'Little Fockers.' 'American Pie' director Paul Weitz will attempt to control the cast, which brings back "Focker" regulars Ben Stiller, Robert De Niro, Teri Polo, Blythe Danner and Owen Wilson, plus newcomer Jessica Alba for a summer 2010 release.

Dern, who was nominated for an Academy Award for 1991's 'Rambling Rose' and won a Golden Globe for 'Recount,' is slated to play the headmistress of the Focker kids' elementary school. We're betting the school curriculum includes home security surveillance, fire safety and pet disposal.

And even though the kids' dad is a nurse, let's hope a big chunk of the day is spent on first aid training-if the little Fockers go anywhere near a volleyball game, they're going to need it.