ND Superintendent Baesler Nominated for National Education Post
M.K. French
Farmer Staff Writer
A Mandan mom and longtime educator could soon be shaping the future of classrooms across America. President Donald J. Trump has nominated North Dakota Superintendent Kirsten Baesler as Assistant U.S. Education Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education. Baesler, a long-time Mandan resident with over 20 years in the Bismarck public school system, expressed her honor at the nomination. “I am excited for this new opportunity to support the education of more than 49 million children and their families,” Baesler stated.
This prestigious position would place Baesler in charge of overseeing efforts to improve student achievement from preschool through 12th grade nationwide. Her focus, she says, aligns with Secretary-designate Linda McMahon’s commitment to creating a “work-ready” focus in education. “This is an opportunity to build on the relationships I’ve formed with fellow state education leaders over the past 12 years to implement the changes that will help our students become future-ready citizens,” Baesler explained.
Baesler’s career in education is extensive. Elected four times as North Dakota’s State Superintendent of Public Instruction, she is currently the longest-serving chief state school officer in the nation. Her background includes experience as a vice principal, technology coordinator, library media specialist, and instructional assistant within the Bismarck public schools. She also dedicated nine years to the Mandan public school board, seven of which she served as president.
During her tenure as superintendent, Baesler has championed initiatives like personalized competency-based learning and the “Choice Ready” accountability framework, designed to equip students for success in work, college, or the military. She has also worked to bolster cybersecurity and computer science instruction in schools, provide budget training for superintendents, and increase transparency through a statewide education dashboard. Her commitment to improving student outcomes is evident in programs like the Be Legendary School Board Training, which focuses on enhancing adult behaviors to positively impact student learning.
Baesler’s commitment to service is rooted in her upbringing in Flasher, N.D., where she was raised with the values of “God, family, country.” “They taught us that it wasn’t a question of if you served; it was a question of finding how you can best serve,” she reflected. “This is my call to serve.”
The nomination has garnered support from key figures in North Dakota. Senator John Hoeven, who personally recommended Baesler to Secretary-designate McMahon, praised her extensive experience and dedication to education. “Kirsten has done a tremendous job overseeing the education of students in North Dakota and will be a great asset to the Trump administration,” Hoeven stated. Governor Kelly Armstrong echoed this sentiment, highlighting Baesler’s understanding of local control in education. “She understands that decisions affecting local schools are best left to local school districts,” Armstrong said.
Baesler will continue serving as North Dakota’s superintendent until her confirmation by the U.S. Senate. If confirmed, she will bring her wealth of experience and passion for education to the national stage, potentially shaping the future of education for millions of students across the country.
Visit www.watfordcitynd.com and subscribe to the McKenzie County Farmer today!