Teacher of the Year Program

Since the first North Dakota Teacher of the Year was named in 1963, this distinguished honor has recognized educators who exemplify excellence, dedication, and commitment to their students. The first recipient was Rita Johnson, an English teacher at Bismarck High School and longtime member of the NDU Foundation Board. Most recently, Brian Schneider, a vocational agriculture teacher from Napoleon, was named the 2027 North Dakota Teacher of the Year.

Through partnerships with businesses and organizations across North Dakota, the NDU Foundation helps honor these outstanding educators and celebrate their contributions throughout the year.

Celebrating Excellence in Education

Each September, the NDU Foundation sponsors a celebratory luncheon at the North Dakota Governor’s Residence in honor of the Teacher of the Year finalists. The gathering brings together finalists, their families and friends, former Teachers of the Year, and state officials for an opportunity to connect and celebrate before the official announcement ceremony at the State Capitol.

In April, the Foundation hosts a Day of Professional Learning, bringing together current and former state and county Teachers of the Year and finalists. This special event provides an opportunity for these accomplished educators to network, exchange innovative ideas, share effective classroom practices, and engage in conversations with elected officials.

Together, these events recognize the achievements of North Dakota’s outstanding educators while fostering collaboration, professional growth, and continued excellence in education.

Thank You to Our Generous Supporters

The North Dakota Teacher of the Year events are made possible through the generous support of businesses and organizations across North Dakota. Their commitment helps the NDU Foundation recognize exceptional educators and celebrate the important role teachers play in shaping our state’s future.

Silver Apple Society

• Bravera Bank

Bronze Apple Society

• Advanced Business Methods
• Aspire Credit Union
• Basin Electric Power Cooperative
• BEK Communications
• Bobcat Company
• Brady Martz
• Capital City Construction
• Cooling & Heating Unlimited
• Electric Systems, Inc.
• Essentia Health
• First Community Credit Union – Jamestown
• Gateway Pharmacy
• Grant County State Bank
• Horace Mann
• Kirkwood Bank & Trust
• Midtown Dental
• Missouri Slope Central Labor Council
• North Dakota United
• NRG Technology Services
• Railway Credit Union
• Sanford Health – Bismarck
• State Bank & Trust of Kenmare
• Stock Growers Bank
• TruCommunity Bank
• United Printing

The NDU Foundation extends its sincere gratitude to these supporters for helping recognize North Dakota’s exceptional educators and strengthen the teaching profession across our state.