North Dakota Schools Honored for Academic Growth

Hebron Elementary and Finley-Sharon Elementary recognized for exceptional student performance

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Two North Dakota elementary schools, Hebron Elementary and Finley-Sharon Elementary, have been recognized by the National Association of ESEA State Program Administrators for their exceptional student performance and academic growth over the past two years. Both schools have been in the top 10% of achievement scores in math and English/language arts during this period.

Why it matters

The recognition highlights the success of these small, rural schools in providing quality education to their students, many of whom come from low-income families. The federal ESEA funding has played a key role in supporting the schools' efforts to improve instruction and student outcomes.

The details

Hebron Elementary has 86 students in grades K-6, while Finley-Sharon Elementary has 75 students in grades preK-6. The principals of both schools credit their teachers' hard work and dedication, as well as the use of federal education aid, for their students' academic achievements. The aid has been used for teacher professional development, more intensive student instruction, and acquiring educational resources.

  • Hebron Elementary is being celebrated by the North Dakota School Superintendent on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
  • Finley-Sharon Elementary will be visited by the North Dakota School Superintendent on March 13, 2026.

The players

Levi Bachmeier

The North Dakota School Superintendent who is celebrating the national recognition of the two elementary schools.

Jeff Larson

The principal of Finley-Sharon Elementary, who attributed the school's success to the hard work of teachers and staff in meeting the needs of every student.

Jennifer Hosman

The principal of Hebron Elementary, who said the school's focus is on what is best for the students and that it is a positive place for teachers to work.

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What they’re saying

“Our school is a positive place to teach in and that trickles down to the students. We support our teachers in every way possible so that they can focus on the most important task, the students.”

— Jennifer Hosman, Principal of Hebron Elementary (NewsDakota.com)

“This commitment to each student increases their chances to become the best version of themselves. They feel they can be successful because their education is valued and students feel valued.”

— Jeff Larson, Principal of Finley-Sharon Elementary (NewsDakota.com)

The takeaway

The success of these small, rural schools in North Dakota demonstrates the impact that dedicated teachers, strong leadership, and targeted federal funding can have on improving educational outcomes, even in communities with high rates of poverty. Their achievements serve as an inspiration for other schools striving to provide quality education to all students.