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A Message from Superintendent Kirsten Baesler
Federal Title VI Assurance: What It Means for ND Schools
Dear North Dakota Educators,
Thank you to everyone who has reached out with questions and concerns about the recent federal assurance request.
This assurance stems from Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, a federal law in place for over sixty years. Title VI prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in programs receiving federal funds. North Dakota schools and districts have long adhered to this requirement, and for those already following the law, this assurance should change nothing about how they operate or the programs they offer—unless a school was somehow falling short of this longstanding law.
✅ What This Means for Schools:
- If a school or district is already complying with Title VI—as I believe all our schools are—no adjustments are needed.
- If a school or district was not in full compliance, it must align its practices with federal nondiscrimination laws.
✅ What is Required Now: The North Dakota Department of Public Instruction and each school district’s central office must submit a one-page form certifying their compliance with Title VI law. This is an administrative task—not a shift in local control, curriculum, or loss of funding or student services.
Our priority remains steadfast: supporting all students and preserving the safe, disciplined learning environments that reflect the values of our families, educators, and communities.
With appreciation,
Kirsten Baesler, State Superintendent
 Introducing BRIDGE: North Dakota’s New K-12 Data System
We’re pleased to announce the name of North Dakota’s new K-12 education data system: BRIDGE – Building Reports Informing Data-driven Growth in Education.
Why “BRIDGE”?
The name BRIDGE reflects the system’s core mission: connecting schools, students, families, and policymakers through meaningful, accessible data that supports student-centered growth. It also captures the spirit of the initiative—bridging gaps between data and decision-making, between reporting and real impact, and between where we are and where we aspire to be. BRIDGE symbolizes strong collaboration across NDDPI, schools, districts, and state and federal partners. It underscores our shared commitment to unified, data-informed efforts that support every student.
A Unified System for a Stronger Future
BRIDGE replaces two previously separate systems—PowerSchool and STARS—with one streamlined, modern enterprise platform. This consolidation will eliminate redundancies, optimize processes, and provide a more efficient, accurate, and user-friendly experience for educators, administrators, and families.
Looking Ahead
We are excited to continue working on the K-12 Data Modernization project. This solution will transform the management of North Dakota education data, allowing our educators to focus more on the state’s K-12 vision: “All students will graduate choice-ready with the knowledge, skills, and disposition to be successful.”
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21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant Competition
NDDPI is pleased to announce the launch of the 2025–2026 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) grant competition.
Applications open April 14, 2025, for this five-year grant opportunity. Eligible applicants include school districts, regional education associations, consortiums, nonprofit organizations, municipal or county government agencies, faith-based groups, higher education institutions, and for-profit corporations not currently receiving 21st CCLC funding.
The 21st CCLC program supports the development or expansion of community learning centers that provide students with engaging academic enrichment and out-of-school-time opportunities. Grants will be awarded competitively and are subject to federal funding availability.
To qualify, applicants must:
Virtual Applicant Workshop – April 29, at 10 a.m. CDT
NDDPI will host a virtual workshop to guide applicants through the grant process, introduce the WebGrants system, and share key information about the 21st CCLC program. Registration is required and can be completed here.
Application Deadline: June 10, 2025, by 12:01 p.m. CDT
For full program details, application materials, or workshop registration, please contact Arlene Wolf at arlenewolf@nd.gov or visit the NDDPI 21st CCLC Webpage.
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North Dakota Scholarship Application Deadline is June 6
The North Dakota Scholarship Application is now open for Class of 2025 seniors. Students may submit their applications at any time before the Friday, June 6 deadline.
⚠️ Important Reminder: Beginning with the Class of 2025, new scholarship requirements are fully in effect. Students can no longer qualify under the former Academic or CTE Scholarship criteria. Make sure students and parents understand the new requirements and how they differ from Choice Ready standards.
Schools must also complete and submit the Choice Ready report accurately. Many scholarship indicators will be pulled directly from this report. If an indicator is not marked, the student cannot use it to qualify—no exceptions will be made.
A detailed email with procedures and guidance was sent to secondary principals and school counselors earlier this week.
📞 Questions? Contact Jim Upgren at 701-328-2244 for assistance.
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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES |
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GRAD 701 Funding Opportunity Now Open – Apply Today!
NDDPI is excited to announce that applications are now open for the GRAD 701 grant—a powerful opportunity to support student success and improve graduation pathways across the state.
💡 What is GRAD 701?
This funding will help districts implement strategies to boost high school graduation rates, strengthen student interventions, and expand learning resources. Specifically, the grant supports partial funding over three years to implement the Building Assets, Reducing Risks (BARR) Model—an evidence-based approach that enhances engagement, academics, attendance, school climate, and family involvement.
📅 Application Deadline: May 2, 2025, at 4 p.m. (CDT)
📌 Learn More: GRAD 701 Funding Webinar – March 27, 2025
Don't miss this opportunity to invest in your students and build stronger graduation outcomes in North Dakota!
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West Fargo Sheyenne High’s Shaina Eagleson Named as Outstanding Science Educator
Shaina Eagleson, a science teacher at West Fargo’s Sheyenne High School, who has been named a state finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.
“It is gratifying to see one of our outstanding North Dakota educators on track to receive a prestigious national award,” said State School Superintendent Kirsten Baesler said. “Every one of Ms. Eagleson’s colleagues can attest to her skill in conveying her subject matter in a way that engages her students, fires their enthusiasm for science, and whets their appetites for more knowledge.”
State finalists are typically named as PAEMST award recipients. A White House announcement is pending.
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ND Adult Learner Receives COABE Students as Leaders Mini Grant
Brandi Heilman, a student at the Bismarck Adult Learning Center, was selected as a recipient of the COABE Students as Leaders Mini Grant, which funded her attendance at the COABE Students as Leaders Summit in Dallas, from March 31 to April 2. COABE (Coalition on Adult Basic Education) is a national organization dedicated to advocating for adult education and providing resources and support for adult learners. Brandi was one of only 100 adult learners nationwide who received the grant.
The sole representative from North Dakota, Brandi had the unique opportunity to connect with adult learners from across the country, share her personal journey, and enhance her leadership skills. Her instructor, Cindy Heaney, recommended Brandi for the program, recognizing her passion and drive for learning. Ashley Coles, the local program coordinator, also supported Brandi’s application, knowing she would bring back valuable insights and leadership abilities to her community.
We’re excited to see how Brandi will continue to use the skills she gained from this experience to inspire others in her community and beyond. Congratulations, Brandi, on this well-deserved recognition!
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From Migrant Fields to College Dreams: A First-Generation Student's Journey of Resilience and Gratitude
Aylin Garza, a Hillsboro High School senior, reflects on her journey as a migrant student, balancing fieldwork, education, and cultural transitions. Despite the challenges, her family's sacrifices and her own determination have led her to the brink of graduation—with a 3.7 GPA, a college scholarship, and a future filled with promise.
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UPCOMING EVENTS
Join us for the 2025 Secondary Transition Summit—a two-day event designed for young adults with disabilities (ages 14–26), families/caregivers, educators, and professionals to gain essential tools and strategies for successful transitions into adulthood.
🗓 Dates & Times
Friday, June 13: 12:00–4:30 p.m. (Pre-Conference)
Saturday, June 14: 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (Full Summit)
📍 Location: Student Conference Center, Minot State University, Minot, ND
🎯 Why Attend?
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Expert-led workshops and interactive sessions
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Dedicated Youth Track led by peers with disabilities
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Practical tools and inspiration for building transition pathways
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Professional Development and Contact Hours available
💲 Cost:
📞 Questions? Email summit@minotstateu.edu or call 800-233-1737, ext. 3206.
The NDDPI Messenger is sent out on a weekly or as-needed basis. Visit our website to view previous NDDPI Messenger/Weekly Blast bulletins.
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