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BRIDGE UPDATE
Opportunities for Support
BRIDGE Open Office Hours:
NDDPI and project partners will now be holding general Office Hours on a weekly basis. Our next session is scheduled for next Wednesday, May 27, 12–1 p.m. CDT.
Data Migration/Validation / Support Sessions:
Project team members from NDDPI, Aurora Educational Technology (our data migration vendor), EduTech, and REAs will be available on a weekly basis to assist districts with specific data questions & support. The next sessions are scheduled for:
NDDPI–District Data‑Sharing Agreements
Data‑sharing agreements between NDDPI and districts were distributed Wednesday, May 20. We previously stated these would be distributed through WebGrants; however, after further review, we determined that would not be the most efficient process for either party. Therefore, Adobe Sign was selected as the distribution method.
District superintendents should have received an email with the link to the document. This is not a spam or phishing email; it is legitimate. Please complete, sign, and return the agreement before July 1, 2026. Once the agreement is executed, a fully signed copy will be sent for your records.
Behavior and Discipline Data Update
As part of the transition from PowerSchool to Infinite Campus, several key behavior and discipline data elements will be migrated to ensure continuity in student records and reporting.
What data is being migrated?
Aurora has developed a standard set of behavior queries to pull data from the Log Entries area of PowerSchool. These queries make some general assumptions about how most districts organize their office disciplinary referrals but are not guaranteed to pull the data correctly. We are asking districts to review these behavior layouts and work with their Infinite Campus migration teams to determine how well these default files capture your referrals. These files are named:
- behaviorEvent.csv
- behaviorEventType.csv
- behaviorIncident.csv
- behaviorResolution.csv
- behaviorResolutionType.csv
- behaviorRole.csv
If your district uses Log Entries in a way that keeps these default files from being particularly useful, Aurora has also created a query that pulls all Log Entry data and saves it in a file called logTableDump.csv. Your Infinite Campus migration team is aware of this complete file and can work with it to map and import your data. Please coordinate with your migration team to determine which file or combination of files is appropriate.
What about existing discipline records?
Yes, discipline entries currently stored in PowerSchool will transfer to Infinite Campus. The exact structure and placement of this data will depend on how districts map their fields during the conversion process. Close collaboration with your implementation partner will be important to ensure accurate alignment.
Third-party tools and integrations
Any third-party systems or custom integrations used for behavior tracking in PowerSchool will not automatically carry over. Districts are responsible for evaluating these tools and determining next steps.
- If you plan to adopt Infinite Campus’ built-in behavior management tools, your implementation team can provide specifications for exporting or integrating historical data as needed.
- If you intend to continue using external systems, please coordinate with those vendors to establish new integrations with Infinite Campus.
Using behavior data in Infinite Campus
Districts are not required to use the Infinite Campus behavior module; however, they must continue meeting state reporting requirements.
If a district chooses not to use Infinite Campus for behavior tracking:
- It must have a reliable process to capture required data elements.
- It may need to maintain or backfill specific data points for state reporting, including suspension, expulsion and truancy data.
For additional guidance, districts are encouraged to work closely with their Infinite Campus implementation team.
Infinite Campus Premium Modules
The contract for Infinite Campus—including all Infinite Campus premium modules—is paid for and managed by NDDPI. There are no plans to charge districts for Infinite Campus SIS or these Infinite Campus premium modules.
NDDPI is requiring that Infinite Campus install and make available some (but not all) Infinite Campus premium products, however, District use of these additional modules remains optional. Districts may choose to activate and utilize these modules based on their local needs and readiness. Training for these Infinite Campus premium products will be provided as part of each district's implementation plan. Districts should work directly with their Infinite Campus implementation manager to discuss the premium products they are interested in utilizing.
Parents and General Public Communication
NDDPI is preparing to release information to the general public in early June as part of the BRIDGE initiative. This statewide communication will continue to focus on the overall “why,” “what,” and “when” of the transition to Infinite Campus, including clear assurance that student data remains protected, secure, and accurate throughout the process. As this broader messaging is shared, districts should be prepared to field questions from staff, students, and families. NDDPI will continue to provide advance notice of timing and key messages to support districts in aligning and reinforcing their local communications.
District Survey – File Storage and User Authentication
As North Dakota transitions to Infinite Campus, we need to understand how each district currently manages staff and student authentication. You will also see a few questions at the end of the survey relating to your existing method(s) for storing student-related documents/files. Your responses will help us provide the correct migration and configuration guidance for your unique needs. Thank you for your participation!
Survey Link
Food Service Balances
As you prepare for your first year with the Infinite Campus Food Service, this is a reminder to gather critical information after your last day of school and prior to June 30th, when PowerSchool access is discontinued. Please ensure you collect the following data for both Staff and Students:
- Name
- ID Number
- Birthdate
- Person ID
- Balance
- PIN
Having this information ready will support a smooth transition into Infinite Campus. Your Infinite Campus Premium Product Trainer will guide you through the import process during a scheduled Topic Based Workshop or Refinement Session. If you have any questions or need assistance, please submit them through your Food Service case.
Technical Services
Looking for customization beyond standard functionality? Infinite Campus partner K12 Solutions offers expert assistance with custom development and tailored solutions to meet your district’s unique needs.
Services include:
- Custom development and fields
- Third-party integrations
- Online registration school boundaries
K12 Solutions provides a free quote to scope your request, helping you understand the effort and solution approach upfront. Please note that any approved work is considered billable. To get started, connect with your Infinite Campus Project Manager to have a case created and initiate the free quote and scoping process.
FAQs
Q: Why were special education units NOT set up like CTE Centers in Infinite Campus?
A: In Infinite Campus, a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) is fully integrated with their primary record, so special education staff need access to the full student record, not just the IEP. Creating a separate special education unit would require transferring the entire record, making that unit responsible for all student data (attendance, coursework, etc.), which is not practical. This differs from CTE centers, where students remain in their home district and are only linked for specific classes. In short, special education requires full record access, while CTE centers operate with limited, course-based access.
Q: How will we know which fields in Infinite Campus are “state-reported” fields?
A: Currently, PowerSchool has a dedicated state reporting page that covers some of the data that needs to be submitted to the state. In Infinite Campus, we are pulling data from the different operational areas. This should put the collection of state reporting data closer to the source of the information. To help districts understand where we are pulling the data from, NDDPI is working on mapping the specific fields in Infinite Campus to the associated fields in the STARS reports. Initial efforts have been focused on the imports that currently automatically feed from PowerSchool to STARS (via the State Longitudinal Data System – SLDS). NDDPI is also drafting a general guide on STARS state reports outlining where a report can be sourced from.
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PowerSchool to STARS: Data Sync, Accuracy Guide & Office Hours
To ensure accurate reporting, districts are encouraged to make all student updates directly in PowerSchool (PS) and allow the data to sync into the State Automated Reporting System (STARS). There are situations that cause this not to occur that we are trying to highlight! STARS serves as the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction’s (NDDPI) source of truth for enrollment, accountability, fiscal processes, and other reporting, so it’s essential that STARS data matches what is entered in PS.
If you have questions about syncing, mismatch errors, or enrollment reporting, join our upcoming online Office Hour sessions. These sessions will address common issues, best practices, and general troubleshooting to help ensure accurate student data across systems. For full details on required fields, common sync issues, and data accuracy expectations, please review the PowerSchool to STARS: Data Sync & Accuracy Guide.
Join the Office Hour session below:
For questions, please contact Stan Schauer.
Reminder: Teacher Effectiveness Report Due June 30
The Teacher Effectiveness Report is open in STARS and is due by June 30, 2026. If your district has not yet submitted this report for the current school year, please plan to do so before the deadline.
Step‑by‑step instructions, FAQs and additional guidance are available on the NDDPI website.
Validation Error
NDDPI has received several questions regarding a validation error that may appear when submitting the report. Pages 3 and 4 of the step‑by‑step guidance walks through this issue in detail and will answer most questions.
For questions, contact the Office of School Approval and Opportunity.
Spring Calendars Due June 1
This is a friendly reminder that Spring School Calendars are due by June 1, 2026. There was an issue with the Student Performance Strategist minutes not saving and that has now been resolved, so if you were having issues with that, please try it again.
If you need assistance, please refer to the guidance document or contact Katie Wald at (701) 328-4923.
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Public Comment Survey Open: Draft 1 of the ND Social Studies Content Standards
NDDPI invites public feedback on the first draft of the North Dakota Social Studies Content Standards. The public comment period will close on June 30, 2026.
These standards outline the essential knowledge, and skills students are expected to develop at each stage of their education. They are intended to guide student learning outcomes while allowing flexibility in instructional methods, curriculum design and assessment practices.
Over the past two months, a committee of North Dakota educators has developed this initial draft as a starting point in the standards revision process. The committee is actively seeking input to help refine and strengthen the standards as its work continues.
NDDPI encourages all interested stakeholders — including educators, parents, community members and industry representatives — to review the draft and share feedback using the survey link below. Public input will play an important role in shaping the next iteration of these standards.
For more information about the standards review process, contact Davonne Eldredge, assistant director of the Office of Academic Support.
Is Your School on the 2026 Reading Curriculum & PD Report List
Now is a great time to review your STARS Reading Curriculum and Professional Development (PD) report status and plan for any updates you may need to make before Oct. 1, 2026. Check the 2026 Public or Nonpublic list to see if your building is scheduled to report in fall 2026.
If you would like more information about your report status or the steps you can take to improve your next review assignment, please contact your ND Regional Education Association or email Brenda Ehrmantraut from NDDPI.
If your school is not on the 2026 reporting list, please check the full Public or Nonpublic lists to find your next reporting date.
Reminder to Sign Up for Amira Learning for the 2026–2027 School Year
North Dakota schools are encouraged to secure their access to Amira Learning for the 2026–2027 school year. Thanks to continued support from the 2025 North Dakota Legislative Assembly, districts can once again utilize this powerful literacy tool at no cost. In addition, NDDPI has received a research grant (REACH‑ND) that will sustain statewide Amira access through 2030.
About Amira Learning
Amira Learning is an AI-powered oral reading tutor that listens to students as they read aloud, provides immediate feedback, and delivers personalized instruction to strengthen fluency and comprehension. Amira also serves as one of North Dakota’s state‑approved screeners for dyslexia, offering a comprehensive approach to early identification and support for struggling readers.
Access at No Cost Through 2030
Through state funding and the REACH‑ND Grant, Amira remains completely free to districts across the state. All training, onboarding, and ongoing support are included, making it easy for schools to implement or continue using the program—no additional budget required.
Proven Growth for North Dakota Students
In 2024, data showed that students who use Amira for just 30 minutes per week experience more than double the score‑point growth on the NDSA in English Language Arts—equivalent to 15 extra weeks of learning.
Ready to Get Started?
Signing up for the 2026–2027 school year is quick, simple, and fully funded. Districts can request access using the form below.
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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES |
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 Register Today for the 12th Annual ND Indian Education Summit
The event is open to all North Dakota educators and covers a wide range of topics focused on best practices for educating Native American students—while still being beneficial for all learners.
The registration cost includes two full days of dynamic keynote speakers (Martin Sensmeier and Nadine Groenig), 18 educational breakout sessions each day, cultural presentations during lunch, authentic Native American foods, handouts and resource materials, product‑vendor and information‑exhibitor booths, door prizes and excellent networking opportunities. Continuing education credit is also available through the University of Mary.
Register for the 2026 NDMTSS Conference – Aligned for Impact: Connecting People, Practices & Purpose
Discover how aligned systems and connected practices create meaningful change for every learner. This year’s North Dakota Multi‑Tier System of Supports (NDMTSS) Conference features inspiring national keynote speakers, North Dakota–focused breakout sessions and hands-on opportunities designed to strengthen teaching, leadership and teamwork across the state.
Join educators, leaders and teams from across North Dakota for three dynamic days of learning, collaboration and practical application — each crafted to support the real needs of schools and students. With daily end-of-day workshop sessions, you’ll not only learn new strategies but also apply them immediately, ensuring participants leave with ready‑to‑use tools.
Summer Assistive Technology Builder In‑Person Training Day
NDDPI invites educators and related service providers to attend the Summer Assistive Technology (AT) Builder In‑Person Training Day on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. CDT at Bismarck State College – Career Academy.
Participants will engage in learning opportunities focused on AT supports and implementation for students. Sessions will include:
- AT in the IEP, supported by Nick Courtney of Goalbook
- AT in instruction and AT abandonment, presented by Sayard Bass from the University of Illinois Chicago
- Practical technology tips and tools that can be implemented immediately
- Breakfast will be provided by Goalbook.
This training day provides an opportunity to collaborate with colleagues from across the state while exploring practical strategies to support student learning and access.
PowerSchool Workshops
If any of the following links do not work, that means the session is full.
Wednesday, May 27
Thursday, May 28
Friday, May 29
ND Engagement Review Training Registration Now Open
NDDPI is offering Preparing for the Engagement Review guided work sessions across the state this fall to help schools get ready for upcoming accreditation engagement reviews and strengthen their continuous improvement efforts.
The training is free for all North Dakota public schools. Nonpublic schools may attend with a $250 registration fee.
Participation is encouraged for all schools, especially those scheduled for engagement reviews in 2026-2027 and 2027-2028.
What to Expect
- Morning training on the engagement review process and current standards
- Afternoon guided work time with Cognia team members available to support planning
Registration
Choose from the following dates and register below:
- Bismarck — September 22
- Minot — September 23
- Fargo — October 8
- Grand Forks — October 9
Virtual Options
Schools unable to attend in person may access free online training through Cognia, including:
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 New Rural Suicide‑Prevention Initiative
North Dakota Health and Human Services has launched a new rural healthcare suicide‑prevention initiative designed to strengthen follow‑up care and expand consistent screening practices across rural and tribal health systems. The initiative supports standardized suicide‑risk screening, improved follow‑up after suicide attempts and stronger referral pathways to behavioral health services.
Educational institutions are eligible to apply for the associated federal funding opportunity, which provides approximately $400,000 in first‑year support for a statewide partner to help rural and tribal healthcare facilities implement evidence‑based suicide‑prevention practices.
This effort comes as youth mental‑health needs continue to rise. Recent data show that 17.5% of North Dakota high school students seriously considered suicide in the past year, and 7.4% attempted suicide. State leaders emphasize the importance of trusted adults and early identification of students who may be struggling.
Educators are encouraged to share this opportunity with community partners or consider applying if their institution qualifies.
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OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS |
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Student Cabinet Applications Now Open
Superintendent Bachmeier is inviting North Dakota students to apply for the 2026–2027 State Superintendent’s Student Cabinet. Students in grades 6–12 attending a North Dakota public or nonpublic school — as well as first‑year North Dakota college students — are eligible to apply. Cabinet members meet every three months at the Capitol, serve 18‑month terms, share their perspectives, discuss challenges and help shape K–12 education in North Dakota.
Application deadline: July 24, 2026, at 5 p.m. CDT.
Second Lady’s Summer Reading Challenge
Second Lady Usha Vance invites students in grades K–8 to participate in her Summer Reading Challenge. From June 1 through September 4, students are encouraged to read 12 books and stay engaged in learning throughout the summer. Participants will be eligible for prizes and a chance to visit Washington, D.C. The challenge aims to foster a lifelong appreciation for reading, build strong literacy skills and help students return to school confident and prepared.
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Ten North Dakota Students Named Semifinalists for U.S. Presidential Scholars Program
Ten outstanding North Dakota high school students have been named semifinalists for the prestigious U.S. Presidential Scholars Program—one of the nation’s highest honors for graduating seniors. These students were selected for their exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and service, standing out among more than 3.7 million graduating seniors nationwide. Final selections will be announced by U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon.
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 Superintendent Levi Bachmeier speaks to honorees in the Great Hall.
Celebrating Excellence in North Dakota Education
Educators, families, and supporters gathered at the State Capitol in Bismarck, North Dakota, where Superintendent Bachmeier led a heartfelt celebration honoring North Dakota’s outstanding teachers. The North Dakota Educator Appreciation & Recognition Ceremony highlighted educators recognized through the Celebrating Excellence in North Dakota Education initiative—individuals nominated by their administrators for making extraordinary contributions to student learning, school culture, and their broader communities.
The ceremony also honored newly National Board Certified Teachers, acknowledging the educators who earned the profession’s highest credential through a rigorous, performance‑based certification process that demonstrates expertise, reflective practice, and meaningful impact on student growth.
Together, these honorees represent the very best of North Dakota education. Their passion, leadership, and unwavering commitment continue to strengthen our schools and inspire students across the state.
Celebrating Excellence in North Dakota Education
- Krista Amann, Branes County North Elementary – Excellence in Innovative Instruction
- Jonathan Berg, Park River Area High School – Excellence in Student Achievement
- Kate Cristaldi, Bowman County School District – Excellence in Holistic Education
- Mercedes Doblado-Hanson, Fargo Public School – Excellence in Engaging Instruction
- Shane Engeland, ND Center for Distance Education – Excellence in Personalized Learning
- Amy Ertelt, Minnewaukan Public Schools – Excellence in Early Childhood Instruction
- Rachelle Faul, Bowbells Public Schools – Excellence in Early Literacy
- Conner Fitzgerald, Milnor Public School – Excellence in Student Impact
- Peter Fritz, ND Center for Distance Education – Excellence in Student-Centered Instruction
- Derek Gathman, Devils Lake High School – Excellence in Mathematics Instruction
- Jessica Gesvalli, Kenmare Public School – Excellence in Special Education Leadership
- Ashley Guy, Jefferson Elementary School – Excellence in Student Support
- Laura Heupel, New England Public School – Excellence in Early Elementary Instruction
- Alicia Jeromcheck, The Innovation School – Excellence in Literary Support
- Eric Krogen, Watford City High School – Excellence in Social Studies Instruction
- Donovan Lambert, Bismarck Public Schools – Excellence in Culturally Responsive Education
- Torrey Larson, East Fairview Elementary – Excellence in High-Impact Instruction
- Anita Mahnke, Davies High School – Excellence in Student Development
- Taylor Melby, Bowbells Public School – Excellence in Foundational Instruction
- Joel Michelson, Discovery Elementary School – Excellence in Continuous Improvement
- Maria Moseanko, Williston Trinity Christian School – Excellence in Early Childhood Support
- Brian Schneider, Napoleon Public School – Excellence in Agricultural Education
- Lora Voegle, Glen Ullin Public School – Excellence in Student Mentorship
National Board Certified Teachers
- Cynthia Bargabos, West Fargo
- Ryan Calrson, West Fargo
- Corian Clark, Fargo
- Melissa DeMull, Fargo
- Brook Gauld, Fargo
- Mary Gorman, West Fargo
- Tonya Hetland, Fargo
- Beatrice Hill, West Fargo
- Crystal Michels, Minot
- Lindsey Simonsen, West Fargo
- Andrea Sluke, West Fargo
- Samantha Stenvold, Forman
- Tiffany Williams-Rice, Bismarck
- Beth Ziman, Hazen
 Celebrating 2026 ND County Teachers of the Year
NDDPI is proud to officially announce this year’s County Teachers of the Year! On behalf of Superintendent Levi Bachmeier, we congratulate the exceptional educators who have been recognized by their counties for their outstanding contributions to education. These teachers will be honored at a special recognition event on June 23, 2026, at the State Capitol in Bismarck, North Dakota.
To see the full list of this year’s honorees, click here.
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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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