Governor Kelly Armstrong has named Levi Bachmeier as North Dakota's next superintendent of public instruction. Bachmeier, currently the business manager for the West Fargo School District, will take on the statewide role following the resignation of current Superintendent Kirsten Baesler.
The appointment comes as Baesler prepares to transition to a federal position, confirmed by the U.S. Senate earlier this month. Bachmeier's background includes significant experience in both local school administration and state education policy.
Key Takeaways
- Levi Bachmeier is the new Superintendent of Public Instruction for North Dakota.
- He previously served as Business Manager for the West Fargo School District.
- Bachmeier was an education policy adviser for former Governor Doug Burgum.
- His appointment follows Kirsten Baesler's move to the U.S. Department of Education.
- Bachmeier will serve until the November 2026 general election.
New Leadership for North Dakota Education
Governor Kelly Armstrong announced the appointment of Levi Bachmeier on Tuesday. Bachmeier brings a strong record of financial management and policy development to the role. His focus has been on maximizing student outcomes while ensuring responsible use of taxpayer funds.
"He played an instrumental role in the Innovative Education Task Force during his time as education policy adviser in the Governor's Office," Governor Armstrong stated. This experience highlights Bachmeier's understanding of statewide educational initiatives.
Bachmeier's tenure as business manager for the West Fargo School District began in 2019. In this role, he managed the district's financial operations, aiming for efficiency and effectiveness in educational spending.
Quick Fact
North Dakota's superintendent of public instruction oversees K-12 education, including curriculum standards, teacher licensing, and school funding across the state.
Bachmeier's Background and Experience
A native of West Fargo, Bachmeier completed his bachelor’s degree in education at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. His career path shows a consistent dedication to education, spanning both local and state-level responsibilities.
Before his time in West Fargo, Bachmeier served in the Governor's Office from 2016 to 2019. During this period, he held positions as education policy adviser and policy director for then-Governor Doug Burgum. This prior experience provides him with an intimate knowledge of state government operations and educational policy-making.
Bachmeier has also been involved in various educational boards. Before taking on the superintendent role, he will resign from his seats on the Board of Public School Education, the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Board, and the State Board of Higher Education. This ensures a clear focus on his new statewide responsibilities.
"I’m grateful for Governor Armstrong’s trust in me. I will work tirelessly to build that same trust with our families, school districts, and communities."
— Levi Bachmeier
Vision for North Dakota Schools
Bachmeier expressed his commitment to the state's education system. He believes in the potential for North Dakota to achieve a leading position in national education.
"I truly believe that with our state’s size and spirit, we can have the best school system in our great nation that prepares students for success in the real world – but we’ll only achieve that by working together," Bachmeier commented. His statement emphasizes collaboration as a key to future success.
He also coaches track and field, demonstrating a personal connection to student development beyond administrative duties. This involvement speaks to his broader commitment to youth and community.
Context: Federal Government Shutdown
The transition of Kirsten Baesler to her federal role as assistant secretary for elementary and secondary education has been impacted by the ongoing federal government shutdown, which began on October 1. Baesler cannot be formally sworn into her new position until the shutdown concludes.
Transition and Future Elections
Bachmeier will officially assume the state superintendent’s role after Kirsten Baesler's resignation. Baesler's confirmation by the U.S. Senate on October 7 paved the way for this transition.
Bachmeier's term as state superintendent will extend through the November 2026 general election. At that time, voters will have the opportunity to elect a candidate to complete the remaining portion of the four-year term, which runs through 2028.
The appointment ensures continuity in leadership for North Dakota's public education system during this period of transition. The focus will now shift to Bachmeier's plans for addressing key educational challenges and opportunities across the state.
Key Dates
- October 1: Federal government shutdown begins.
- October 7: U.S. Senate confirms Kirsten Baesler for federal position.
- October 21: Governor Armstrong appoints Levi Bachmeier.
- November 2026: General election for superintendent to complete term through 2028.
This leadership change marks a new chapter for North Dakota's public schools. Stakeholders across the state will be watching closely as Bachmeier outlines his priorities and begins his work.
