Bachmeier Announces Campaign for ND Superintendent of Public Instruction

Educator and current Superintendent Levi Bachmeier outlines vision for North Dakota schools

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Levi Bachmeier, the current Superintendent of Public Instruction in North Dakota, has announced his campaign to lead the state's Department of Public Instruction. Bachmeier, an educator and coach, is running on a platform focused on putting students first, supporting great teachers, and ensuring resources go directly into the classroom.

Why it matters

The Superintendent of Public Instruction is a key leadership role in North Dakota, responsible for overseeing the state's public education system. Bachmeier's campaign promises to focus on improving student outcomes, rejecting political agendas in schools, and empowering parents and educators - priorities that could have a significant impact on the future of education in the state.

The details

Bachmeier, who was appointed to the Superintendent role in 2025, is running on a platform of a 'back to basics' approach centered on strong schools, great teachers, engaged families, and high expectations. He believes North Dakota's public schools can be 'great' by putting students first, supporting teachers, and ensuring resources are directed to the classroom rather than bureaucracy. Prior to becoming Superintendent, Bachmeier served as a teacher, coach, and education policy advisor to the governor.

  • Bachmeier was appointed Superintendent of Public Instruction by Governor Kelly Armstrong in October 2025.
  • Bachmeier assumed the role of Superintendent on November 24, 2025.
  • Bachmeier has submitted the necessary paperwork and signatures to appear on the June 2026 primary election ballot for Superintendent of Public Instruction.

The players

Levi Bachmeier

The current Superintendent of Public Instruction in North Dakota, Bachmeier is an educator, coach, and policy advisor who is running for the top education leadership role in the state.

Governor Kelly Armstrong

The Governor of North Dakota who appointed Bachmeier to the Superintendent of Public Instruction role in 2025.

Doug Burgum

The former Governor of North Dakota, for whom Bachmeier served as an education policy advisor earlier in his career.

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What they’re saying

“Our public schools are good today, but they can be great. That starts with putting kids first, supporting great teachers, and making sure resources are going where they matter most: into the classroom, not bureaucracy.”

— Levi Bachmeier, Superintendent of Public Instruction Candidate (NewsDakota.com)

“The Department of Public Instruction should be a partner, not a barrier. Families care about how schools are run, what students are learning, and whether they're being prepared for life. I'll work alongside parents, educators, and communities to make sure every student graduates ready for the real world.”

— Levi Bachmeier, Superintendent of Public Instruction Candidate (NewsDakota.com)

What’s next

Bachmeier will appear on the June 2026 primary election ballot for North Dakota Superintendent of Public Instruction. The top two vote-getters in the primary will advance to the November general election.

The takeaway

Bachmeier's campaign promises to focus on improving student outcomes, supporting teachers, and empowering parents - priorities that could have a significant impact on the future of education in North Dakota if he is elected as the next Superintendent of Public Instruction.