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North Dakota

U.S.
Rank
#33 D
Overall PPI Score: 65%
North Dakota Overview
Opportunity
Innovation
Policy Environment

Digital & Innovative Learning Opportunities

Score
70%
Grade: C
Rank: #49

Many students participate in work-based learning and CTE planning programs. The state has extensive competency-based education initiatives and Innovative Zones.

Transformational Learning Opportunities:

Virtual & Online Schooling:

  • North Dakota’s statewide virtual school is housed in North Dakota’s Center for Distance Education (NDCDE), and is the only full-time virtual school available in the state. Courses are offered to public school students as well as those in private schools, homeschools, or in charter schools. NDCDE offers courses in many subject areas including advanced placement, credit recovery, dual credit, and a project based “SmartLab” for STEM students. Virtual charter schools are not allowed to operate.

  • During the 2023 legislative session, North Dakota passed HB1376 to provide more opportunities for students and families to meet their educational requirements through North Dakota’s virtual schools and NDCDE. The bill allows for open-enrollment into a virtual school. 


Digital Learning Resources:

  • North Dakota Libraries offer digital literacy resources on its website.

  • Curious about your district’s internet access? ConnectK-12 provides state- and district-specific information on access to the recommended bandwidth speeds and monthly internet costs. 


Career & Technical and/or Work-based Education:

  • North Dakota supports CTE and work-based learning programs that provide students with career-ready skills. These programs can culminate in industry certifications or even associate degrees.

 

Personalized, Competency- and/or Mastery-based Learning:

  • Senate Bill 2196 (2021) aimed to encourage a shift towards competency-based systems. While it did not pass, it signals the state’s efforts to formally move towards a competency-based system of learning.

  • With support from KnowledgeWorks, the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction created the Personalized, Competency Based Education Learning initiative. 4 districts currently participate in the program and their work has been highlighted by KnowledgeWorks. 

 

Innovation Schools, Zones, and/or Districts:

  • In 2017, SB2186 was enacted, which launched the Innovative Education Program. This legislation permits districts to seek exemptions from bureaucratic regulations, thereby expanding the potential to introduce more innovative educational approaches.

  • In 2021, HB1478 was passed to allow schools to offer credits for educational opportunities that take place outside of the school building, through a sponsored entity. The Initiative, called Learn Everywhere, provides adaptability in delivering lessons to students within authentic workplace settings.