North Dakota – Governor Kelly Armstrong has congratulated North Dakota Superintendent of Public Instruction Kirsten Baesler on her nomination to serve as the Assistant Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education in the U.S. Department of Education.

Baesler, who has led the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction since 2013, will continue her duties until confirmed for the federal role.

In addition to her 12 years as state superintendent, Baesler brings 24 years of experience in Bismarck Public Schools and nine years on the Mandan School Board.

Gov. Armstrong commended her for her practical experience and commitment to local control in education, stressing that decisions impacting schools should be made at the local level with minimal federal involvement.

Once Baesler is confirmed and steps down, Armstrong will appoint a replacement to serve until the 2026 election.