Kendall Bergrud, a mathematics teacher at Wachter Middle School in Bismarck and an alumnus of Dickinson State University (DSU), has been named the 2025 North Dakota Teacher of the Year.  

In addition to his outstanding contributions in the classroom, Bergrud plays an important role in shaping the next generation of educators. Dr. Deborah Secord, professor of education at DSU, praised Bergrud as an exceptional classroom teacher and a remarkable mentor who has been instrumental in preparing many DSU teacher candidates for the classroom. She further noted, “I am grateful for every opportunity our students have to observe him and work with him. He is truly one of the best!” 

Bergrud expressed his gratitude for the award, saying, “It’s an honor to represent the incredible teachers of North Dakota, and I hope to continue making a difference in the lives of my students.”  

As North Dakotas Teacher of the Year, Bergrud is now in the running for National Teacher of the Year, which will be announced in the spring of 2025.