Voice Your Support for Public Schools
Public education cuts lead to larger class sizes and less support for students and educators, especially those who live in rural areas or are in need of special services.
A United Voice for Educators and Public Employees in North Dakota
Joining North Dakota United means investing in the future of our state, where quality public education and essential services are the cornerstones of success. Together we can advocate for well-funded public schools and bolster the vital public services our citizens rely on daily.
Our United Voices
NDU Foundation Grants Now Open All Year
NDU Foundation Grants Now Open All Year
The North Dakota United Foundation proudly announces that its four grants are now accepting applications throughout the year, with a rolling application process and no closing date.
Relationships First: How ND Teacher of the Year Tunseth Builds Trust, Belonging and Student Success
Relationships First: How ND Teacher of the Year Tunseth Builds Trust, Belonging and Student Success
Rooted in relationships and belonging, 2026 North Dakota Teacher of the Year Frannie Tunseth is redefining success in rural classrooms by helping students see themselves as capable, valued learners before anything else. Her student-centered approach — focused on confidence, agency and community — offers a hopeful model for both teaching and teacher leadership across the state.
From Struggling Reader to Teacher of the Year Finalist, Dawes Found Her Calling in Literacy
From Struggling Reader to Teacher of the Year Finalist, Dawes Found Her Calling in Literacy
Grand Forks educator and North Dakota Teacher of the Year finalist Emily Dawes uses science-based reading instruction to help every child feel capable and confident.
Teacher of the Year Finalist Sagvold Helps Students Thrive Through Community, Connection and Care
Teacher of the Year Finalist Sagvold Helps Students Thrive Through Community, Connection and Care
Hannah Sagvold, a business and career and technical education teacher in Lisbon, brings personalized, real-world learning into her classroom while building deep connections between students, school, and community. From launching a student-run enterprise to preserving more than a century of school history, her work is rooted in helping students feel seen and valued while strengthening pride in public education.
Teacher of the Year Finalist Wheeling Uses Play to Teach Wellness and Digital Skills
Teacher of the Year Finalist Wheeling Uses Play to Teach Wellness and Digital Skills
Leah Wheeling, a Simle Middle School physical education teacher in Bismarck and finalist for 2026 ND Teacher of the Year, uses play, physical education and digital literacy to help students build wellness, skills and connection.
Dr. Bridget Brooks: Leading with Courage and Community
Dr. Bridget Brooks: Leading with Courage and Community
In a time when authenticity can feel risky, Dr. Bridget Brooks of the University of North Dakota has chosen to lead with courage. Inspired by UND’s OUTlist, which publicly celebrates LGBTQ+ faculty and staff, Brooks and her wife, Jody, founded the UND LGBTQ+ Endowment to support the university’s Pride Center — the only one of its kind at a North Dakota higher education institution.
Together We Can: Empower Your Career, Strengthen Your Community
By banding together, we can guarantee every child has access to an excellent public education and uphold the essential public services that drive North Dakota's prosperity.
Membership Benefits: Why Join ND United?
Advance Your Career With Free Professional Development
Take Action on the Issues That Matter Most
Explore ND United's Resources & Information
Access the latest news and media center, exclusive members-only content, and learn more about ND United's mission and impact.
Together, We Can Bring Meaningful Change
Facts About The Issues That Matter Most
Only 32% of North Dakota counties have access to a private school. 93% of ND students attend a public school.
Together, We Can Bring Meaningful Change
We must keep public dollars in public schools. Voucher schemes directly suck funding out of rural community schools across North Dakota that are already underfunded and diverts scarce resources away from most North Dakota students.
Learn About Vouchers
Fourteen counties in North Dakota meet less than 60% of the demand for childcare.
Together, We Can Bring Meaningful Change
We must invest in affordable childcare. We know that the ongoing shortage of childcare providers is preventing parents from joining or rejoining the workforce at a time when there are more than 18,000 unfilled jobs in North Dakota.
What's Being Done?
While there were notable funding increases in 2023 for public workers and educators, we still fell short of where our state needs to be.
Together, We Can Bring Meaningful Change
ND United is a strong advocate for increasing investments in educator and public worker salaries. This ensures that students get access to qualified teachers and North Dakotans receive the quality services they rely on.
The Fight for Funding
What’s on Your Mind?
We’re here to help. Our community comes to us seeking tools (guides, reports, trainings, and more) to help answer everyday questions. We’re here to support you in whatever you need.
A Union of Professionals in Public Education and Public Services
Leverage your combined power, at the negotiating table with school boards, in the halls of the state Legislature, and in the decision-making process when elected officials and administrators are determining your pay, benefits and terms of employment.
Keeping the Promise of Quality Public Education & Public Services
With more than 11,500 members across the state, NDU supports equal opportunities for success for ALL North Dakota students, and respect and support for all educators. NDU members are teachers, community college professors, speech pathologists, bus drivers, secretaries, retired educators and student teachers.