In this episode, 2022 North Dakota Teacher of the Year Bret Dockter and Tom Gerhardt visit with 2023 North Dakota Teacher of the Year finalist Abby DuBord of Bismarck.

DuBord is a first-grade teacher at Elk Ridge Elementary in Bismarck. DuBord was a part of the Bismarck Public School's Teacher Leader Academy where she had the opportunity to take part in hands-on leadership experiences at both the school and district level.

DuBord has found staff and student wellness to be a priority--especially following COVID-19. She says to be successful as educators, basic physical, mental, and emotional needs of staff and students need to be met.

She also believes in authentic learning experiences as educators prepare their students for an unknown future.

DuBord believes the best way to prepare students is to get them involved in the world around them through academic, social-emotional, and life lessons.