Kirsten Baesler was elected as DPI Superintendent in 2012 after dedicating over two decades to education first as an aide, then library media specialist, vice-principal, PTA president and Mandan School Board president.

Baesler says one thing she brought to the office after serving in various positions and listening to colleagues was the firm idea that something had to change.

In June of 2013, she formed a working group to look at what is standing in the way of innovative education at the public school level and what could be done to change that. Eighteen months later, that group came to a realization is finally coming to fruition in the 2017 legislative session.

We continue our conversation with Governor Doug Burgum. In this episode, he talks about how he found his passion as a student and in life, the one thing he directed his children to do each day in school plus more on how he’s seen North Dakotans compete with the best in the world and what will take to continue on that path into the future.

He also talks about what will define success when it comes to innovative education in North Dakota.

North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum sets the stage for our conversations on innovative education in North Dakota. Hear why he’s so passionate about education, his family connection to public schools and his thoughts on SB 2186.

Governor Burgum also gives his viewpoints on why he thinks North Dakota is positioned to succeed moving forward and what gives him the confidence to believe North Dakota schools can be the best in the world.

If you’re a teacher or a student, we’ve developed a podcast just for you.

It’s an exciting and important time in education in North Dakota. The door is wide open for innovative ideas to better equip our children for the future.

What needs to done to prepare the next generation of students and teachers? And what does innovative education look like in action?

Our conversations will include Governor Doug Burgum. We’ll also hear from key decision makers and most importantly teachers and students from K-12 to Higher Ed.

I’m Tom Gerhardt from North Dakota United is teaming up with Ted Dintersmith and the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction to explore education innovation across North Dakota and the nation.

Our hope is  “The Cutting Ed” sparks conversations and ideas that contribute to helping teachers and students—no matter the size of the school or the ability level of the student—achieve greatly.

Let’s have the conversation together.