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BRIDGE Update
This week’s updates highlight key guidance on the transition to Infinite Campus, including what PowerSchool and TieNet data will be migrated, what districts will need to manage or validate, and how third‑party integrations will be supported. The summary also clarifies the blackout period, data retention plans, the district costs covered by NDDPI, and links to the new visual data migration timeline to support planning.
New Initiative Aims to Improve Wellness for Rural Students
State Superintendent Levi Bachmeier announced the launch of the Rural Health Transformation in Schools (RHTS) Working Group, an initiative designed to identify opportunities to strengthen wellness and support for students in North Dakota’s rural communities.
“Every North Dakota student, no matter their ZIP code, deserves the foundation to be fit, focused, and friendly,” Bachmeier said. “Wellness is directly tied to academic success. Schools nourish students’ minds, but we also want to ensure they have the tools and resources to thrive physically, emotionally, and socially. Rural students often face barriers in accessing those supports, and this working group will help us pinpoint practical ways to close that gap.”
The RHTS Working Group will include up to five educators who are passionate about improving student wellness. Preference will be given to teachers, administrators, coaches, and classified staff with experience serving rural communities. The group will initially focus on four priority areas: nutrition, sleep habits, screen use, and physical activity.
Public school district superintendents are invited to submit nominations for the working group by March 20.
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District Meal Debt Survey: Deadline Extended
School meal debt has been widely discussed across the state as leaders work to understand how meal costs and unpaid balances are affecting students, families, and district finances. Due to this heightened interest and ongoing legislative conversations, NDDPI is seeking district-level insight through the District Meal Debt Survey, which has now been extended through March 13.
We encourage all North Dakota public and nonpublic school districts to complete this brief survey to help inform a clearer statewide picture. Please submit one response per district.
Thank you for contributing to this important conversation about school meal programs in North Dakota.
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Student Engagement Survey Results
With the window for schools to complete the student engagement survey now closed, NDDPI is now compiling the results. These results will be shared with schools in late March or early April. Additional information will be available on the K-12 Reporting and Analytics Portal during the accountability posting period this fall. Superintendents and principals should continue monitoring NDDPI Messenger articles and their email for updates.
If you have any questions regarding this process, please contact Amanda Peterson.
Human Trafficking Education Resources
North Dakota public schools are required to provide human trafficking and exploitation prevention education under North Dakota Century Code § 15.1-09-61. To support schools in meeting this requirement, 31:8 Project and YouthWorks offer grade‑appropriate, curriculum‑ready presentations.
These presentations equip students with age-appropriate information about human trafficking, personal safety, and how to seek help. A scheduling form is now available for public schools to request and prepare for a presentation. Schools can use the form to coordinate with presenters, outline logistical needs, and ensure all requirements of NDCC § 15.1‑09‑61 are fully met.
North Dakota Social Studies Content Standards Revision Survey
North Dakota educators are invited to take part in the North Dakota Social Studies Content Standards Revision Survey, open from March 2–20, 2026. NDDPI is seeking statewide feedback to help guide revisions to the 2019 Social Studies Content Standards. Your input is a valuable part of this process. Please share your perspective using the survey link provided.
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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES |
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Upcoming PowerSchool Scheduling Sessions
As districts continue preparing for the next scheduling cycle, two upcoming PowerSchool training opportunities are available to support teams with both early scheduling and returning PowerScheduler workflows. These sessions provide guided assistance to help ensure a smooth and efficient setup for the year ahead.
Tuesday, March 10 | Virtual via Microsoft Teams | 9 a.m. CDT
Early Scheduling (Elementary or High School)
Wednesday, March 11 | Bismarck | 9 a.m. CDT
Prepare to Schedule (Returnees)
IgniteND 2026
IgniteND is back! This dynamic statewide conference brings together educators, administrators, and technology leaders to explore innovative practices that keep North Dakota education moving forward.
IgniteND offers hands-on learning, professional credentials, and practical tools across a range of high‑impact topics, including:
- Artificial Intelligence in Education
- Computer Science & Cybersecurity
- Instructional Tools & Statewide Resources
- Leadership & Instructional Support
- Student Data & Responsible Technology Practices
Participants can earn graduate credit and Computer Science & Cybersecurity Level 3 credentials.
The first 250 participants will receive $50 off registration courtesy of the AI Institute for Teaching and Learning.
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Goalbook Co‑Teaching & Collaboration Support
Co‑teaching teams often struggle to build a shared language and consistent approach. Goalbook Toolkit helps bridge that gap by giving GenEd, SpEd, and RSP staff common tools to align instruction and better meet student needs.
If your focus is shared baselines and instructional alignment, highlight how Browse Assessments supports teams with:
- Standards‑aligned baselines to identify where students are starting
- Progress‑monitoring assessments to track growth together
- A shared resource bank for consistent planning
If your emphasis is whole‑team collaboration, reinforce the “Team‑Around‑The‑Student” model. Effective individualization requires all service providers to move in the same direction, and Goalbook Toolkit serves as the shared digital workspace that keeps decisions aligned. The Collaboration Learning Hub offers resources to strengthen communication between GenEd teachers, SpEd staff, and RSPs.
Both angles support the same message: when teams share tools, language, and understanding, students experience stronger, more coherent instruction.
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OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS |
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Explorer Program Opens Doors for Students
The North Dakota Game and Fish Department is launching the Explorer Program, giving high school students ages 16–18 a hands-on look at careers in natural resources, conservation, and law enforcement. Participants will work alongside professionals in wildlife and habitat management, fisheries, enforcement, and public outreach.
The program is designed to help students explore potential college and career paths while also introducing the agency to future seasonal and full-time candidates. Many current staff began as seasonal employees, and the Explorer Program offers students a direct pathway to those opportunities.
Students can apply at gf.nd.gov and must include a reference letter from a counselor or teacher. The application deadline is March 22. More information on eligibility, activities, and expectations is available on the Department’s website.
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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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