Bismarck parents are seeing fresh opportunities for school choice as North Dakota moves into uncharted territory. With recent state-level shifts—like the passing of charter school legislation and proposals for Education Savings Accounts (ESAs)—families in Bismarck can now weigh alternatives to traditional public schooling in ways they haven’t before.
Until recently, North Dakota was one of the last states with virtually no public school choice. In 2025, Senate Bill 2241 authorized public charter schools—though none are open yet.
Proposed education savings account and voucher programs have heated debate in the Legislature. Meanwhile, Governor Kelly Armstrong vetoed a voucher bill earlier this year, citing flaws in its design.
Also relevant: shifting Title I funding rules may reduce support for schools that enroll students who live outside district lines—a change that could affect open-enrolled students in Bismarck.
And in a local challenge, Bismarck Public Schools faced uncertainty over federal grant dollars this fall, complicating budgeting decisions tied to enrichment and support programs.
The result? For Bismarck families, school choice is no longer theoretical—it’s a fast-moving option that demands informed decision-making.
How-to: Choosing the Right School in Bismarck, ND
Here’s a step-by-step local guide for parents:
1. Know your new options
Public charter schools: Soon to be allowed under state law. Keep an eye on pilot project proposals in Bismarck.
Education Savings Accounts / vouchers: Proposed state funds that would let families cover tuition, fees, educational services. These are not fully enacted yet.
Open enrollment / district transfers: Even without choice-specific programs, many districts permit nonresident enrollments under certain rules.
Microschools or private alternatives: Schools like The Innovation School in Bismarck already operate on a flexible model, offering smaller classes and individualized learning.
2. Research performance and oversight
Before enrolling, request data: test scores, graduation rates, student-teacher ratios. Any private or charter program accepting public funds will likely need transparency and audits.
Note: State Superintendent Kirsten Baesler has expressed that school choice funding should supplement, not supplant, public school dollars.
3. Map logistics in Bismarck
Check how far you’ll commute—transportation may be your responsibility under choice programs.
Confirm whether extracurriculars, special support (e.g. special education) are included.
Ask whether your child’s current school district (e.g. Bismarck Public Schools) will allow transfers or count toward choice credits.
4. Watch legislative developments
School choice rules in ND are evolving. Bills may change funding levels, eligibility, and oversight. Stay informed via local news, the state DPI, or school board updates.
5. Talk to local parents and educators
“I see it with my son … he feels so comfortable here,” says Alicia Jerome of The Innovation School, noting change in student confidence under a nontraditional model.
“Knowing your kids … is at the heart of what we do here … making learning real-world applicable,” says Kelsy Achtenberg, dean at that school.
At the state level, Superintendent Baesler has warned that school choice must not hurt public schools—but that policy should serve all students.
As North Dakota redefines public education policy, Bismarck parents now hold more options—and more questions. Whether your child thrives in the traditional system, wants to test a microschool model, or hopes for future charter access, the time to learn, plan, and advocate is now. Stay connected with your school board, watch proposed state legislation, and don’t hesitate to ask detailed questions. Your child’s future deserves more than default.
