Bismarck teacher Sheila Peterson named 2024 North Dakota Teacher of the Year

BISMARCK, N.D. — Sheila Peterson of Bismarck has been named the 2024 North Dakota Teacher of the Year.

Peterson was recognized by State School Superintendent Kirsten Baesler and Lt. Gov. Tammy Miller Thursday, Sept. 28, at the North Dakota Capitol building. Also present were fellow candidates Andee Mattson, an elementary school music teacher and choir director from Rugby’s Ely Elementary School, Trisha Schaefer, a sixth grade math teacher from Minot’s Ramstad Middle School and Megan Wasness, an English teacher from Devils Lake’s Central Middle School.

Peterson is a physical education teacher, athletics coach and reading strategies educator from Bismarck’s Wachter Middle School. She has been working at the school since 2010 and coaches basketball, volleyball and track.

“I have no doubt that Mrs. Peterson educates everyone she encounters, whether intentional or not,” Erik Hanson, a math teacher at Wachter, said in the press release announcing Peterson’s win. “She draws people in, makes them feel safe, heard, (and) understood, and guides them in whatever way she is able. Education is not solely her career, it is who she is as a person.”

In the same press release, a previous student of Peterson’s, Logan Schaubert, said he considers her to be the most impactful teacher he’s ever known.

“She puts the kids first, leaving positive and life-changing messages whenever you speak with her,” he said.

Otto is a recent University of North Dakota graduate and reporter at the Herald.