Latest News
Get this week's news and events from across Fargo Public Schools in the current issue of SCHOOLTALK. This week's issue highlights include newsmakers, feature columns, and more.
At FPS, we know that the success of our students is deeply rooted in the partnership between our staff and parents. Together, we create a community where every child feels supported, valued, and inspired to achieve their full potential. It’s this collaboration that makes FPS a special place for learning and growth. Read about the important collaborations between FPS staff and parents to create an exceptional experience for every student
As the end of the semester approaches, both teachers and students are preparing to finalize grades. It is crucial for teachers to communicate and review each student’s body of evidence and letter grades. Likewise, parents should review their student’s gradebook and reach out to teachers with any questions or concerns.
Fargo Public Schools has launched a dedicated resource page to guide the Fargo Public Schools community through the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence in education. This resource page serves as a guide for students, educators, and families regarding the use of AI in education and how FPS is approaching the use of AI to assist in student learning. Students and families can access the resource on the FPS website, under Departments and Technology.
What does “Accepting Imperfection" mean to you? Students are invited to express their thoughts, and unleash their creativity through dance, choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography, and/or visual arts in the ND PTA Reflections program. Every year, students Pre-K through Grade 12 across the country create original works in response to a student-selected theme. Submissions are accepted online at the PTA Reflections website through January 31.
There will be NO SCHOOL on Friday, January 17 due to a staff professional development day and Monday, January 20 due to the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday. Classes will resume as regularly scheduled on Tuesday, January 21.
The District Student Support Team is a dedicated group of professionals working collaboratively to support students from Early Childhood Special Education through Grade 12. The purpose of this team is to provide building teams an avenue to request assistance for students with complex behavioral or academic needs (both students with and without an IEP/504).
In line with its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, FPS is implementing an enhanced process and procedure for Adapted Physical Education. This initiative is not merely a compliance measure with the guidance set forth by the ND Department of Public Instruction, but a proactive step towards ensuring that every student, regardless of ability, receives tailored physical education services.
AD-Ventures is a district publication to help families find activities for their children throughout our community. It is published on the first of each month September-May.
The Board of Education of the City of Fargo is searching for its next Superintendent of Schools. The Fargo Board of Education seeks an outstanding administrative leader who will provide strong leadership for the District and continue the tradition of excellence in education enjoyed by the district, students, and community it serves. The position will be open for application through February 2.
While this time of year often brings joy and togetherness, it can also increase stress, loneliness, and mental health challenges. The holiday season can intensify feelings of isolation and depression for some individuals. Factors such as financial pressures, social obligations, and memories of lost loved ones may contribute to emotional distress.
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In support of our commitment to equitable and transparent grading practices, FPS is implementing Standards-Based Instruction (SBI) and Evidence-Based Reporting (EBR) for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in general education settings. Beginning in the 2024-25 school year, asterisks will no longer be used on progress reports K-12 to indicate student proficiency levels.
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Although the Fargo Board of Education Negotiations Committee has not yet formally begun negotiations, the committee has been meeting and has been busy at work preparing for the 2025-2027 negotiations season.
Emergencies are, by their nature, unpredictable. However, when students and staff are well-prepared, the response can be swift and effective. Emergency drills are vital to help build a school-wide culture of safety. Teaching students and staff exactly what to do, whether it's a fire, a lockdown situation, or a tornado, prepares them to respond in the first moments in the safest way possible.
Find out more about reimagining four core school sites: Ben Franklin, Hawthorne, Roosevelt and Madison. To ensure plans reflect the values of those who live in the community, we want to hear from you!
Fargo Public Schools makes every effort to keep schools open each day. Our first choice will always be to remain open, but at times the weather conditions within the city merit a school closing.
This year, the Fargo Board of Education's Governmental Affairs Committee is focused on preparing for the 69th North Dakota Legislative Session. Once the session begins, the committee will closely monitor bills related to K-12 education, regularly updating legislators on how proposed legislation could impact our district, students, and community. Read more about the work the Governmental Affairs Committee is doing to advocate for the District.
As FPS continues to enhance student safety and security during school bus operations, we would like to share important reminders and updates about our bus scanning procedures. The safety and security of our students during transportation remain our utmost priority. Read more about the updates to the bus scanning procedures and actions required of staff to ensure the proper implementation of these procedures
In late fall of 2023, the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction released the ND-ELA Alternate Assessment Standards. This document aligns the North Dakota State Content Standards and the Dynamic Learning Maps Essential Elements to assist districts in developing curriculum, scope, and sequence for students with the most significant disabilities.
When giftedness resides alongside autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or other learning difference in the same person, the person is said to be “twice exceptional” or “2e” for short. The presence of at least two neurodiverse conditions in one brain can present unique challenges for twice exceptional people. It can also present great potential and lead to exceptional outcomes.
This school year, the Fargo Board of Education's Planning Committee will continue to be heavily involved in the implementation of the newly adopted long-range facilities plan, which was approved by the Board on June 11, 2024. Creating a plan is just the beginning. Now that plan must be put into practice, which will take a lot of effort and will again require gathering input from the community throughout the year.
When students take time to reflect on what they’re learning, they perform better in school. Research shows that self-assessment and reflection are two of the most effective strategies for improving learning. When students think about what they’ve learned and identify areas they need to work on, they can set clearer, more meaningful goals.
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Starting in the month of October, kindergarteners and children in our early childhood programs will begin bringing home red Raising a Reader book bags each week. The red bags contain three books that families can share together and return to school the next week. The goal is to support families in establishing, enhancing, and maintaining home reading routines.
This fall, FPS is excited to introduce Proficiency Days at our comprehensive high schools. These days are designed to help students focus on their academic growth and reach their full potential. Proficiency Days provide targeted opportunities for students to improve their skills and progress toward their goals. Watch the video.
This year, FPS started using the term "Multilingual Learners" instead of "English Learners." This change is more than just a new name — it shows the District's commitment to understanding and valuing students’ cultural backgrounds. Read more about the transition from English Learners to Multilingual Learners in this Feature Column by Multilingual Learners Facilitator Jenna Polley.
The Fargo Board of Education approved the final mill levy certification and district budgets for the 2025 school year on September 24. Most individuals think of the General Fund when it comes to school district budgeting, however, Fargo Public Schools budgets for and operates multiple funds, some of which are reserved by law under North Dakota Century Code and can only be used for specified purposes.
At the core of the Standards-Based Instruction/Evidence-Based Reporting model are Enduring Skills and Essential Learning Outcomes. These guide students in becoming more than just passive learners—they develop the ability to apply knowledge, think critically, and innovate. As learners, users, and producers of new knowledge, students are empowered to take ownership of their educational journey.
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FPS transitioned to a new mass communication system, BrightArrow. Unfortunately, since the launch, FPS has experienced some technical challenges that have been particularly frustrating during critical moments, including recent safety and security incidents. ream ore about the new system and how to ensure you receive important information from FPS.
As a parent, it can sometimes feel like you're trying to decode a secret language when it comes to understanding your child's school grades. FPS is committed to providing clear, accurate information on your child’s progress, highlighting both where they are excelling and where they may need more support. Our grading system is designed to focus on the skills your child can use in the real world, emphasizing their academic achievements independent of other factors.
Households may qualify for free or reduced-cost meals. FPS encourages all families to complete the Student Frees Assistance and Benefits application available online. Qualifying includes free waivers for some student activities, submitting college applications, and taking national standardized tests in addition to meal payment benefits.
The FPS Adult Learning Center is a regional hub for Adult Education and Family Literacy based out of the Agassiz with satellite sites supporting the southeastern portion of North Dakota.
The Evidence-Based Reporting gradebook is designed to give a more transparent, skills-based view of a student’s progress. Understanding the gradebook is essential for staying connected with your student’s learning and helping them succeed.
FPS is excited to introduce the Mental Health Series Platform from ParentGuidance.org, a powerful new resource designed to support family mental health and well-being. When caregivers have helpful tools, it benefits children, strengthens families, and contributes to a thriving community.
The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is a federal law that provides important educational rights and services to Pre-K - grade 12 youth experiencing homelessness. More than 100 FPS students are homeless tis school year.
To foster greater engagement and align its efforts with District strategic objectives, the Teaching and Learning team is introducing a key initiative: the implementation of Leadership Rounding.
FPS is committed to taking proactive steps to prevent suicide and support the mental health of our students. Suicide is preventable, and the our collective efforts can make a difference.
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Students may qualify for federal and state assistance to cover the cost of meals. Households may qualify based on income and size, participation in a federal assistance program (SNAP, etc.) and other criteria.
FPS sent a text message to all parents & staff from number 79041 asking you to opt-in to receive text message alerts from FPS and school. To continue receiving texts you MUST respond YES.
Read about revisions to Administrative Policy 6250 Student Restraint Policy to comply with federal requirements in this column by Director of Compliance Dr. Patricia Cummings.
As teachers prepare to finalize grades, read about the process of finalizing evidence-based grades in this column by Allie Kollman, Science Facilitator.
FPS wants to update its community, parents, and staff on a recent review process regarding educational materials, specifically the Baby Olivia video by Live Action. Read more about the decision and the process.
Read about the steps being taken to make the negotiations process more collaborative, productive and efficient in this Board Column by Fargo Board of Education Negotiations Committee Chair Seth Holden.
Dr. Timothy Shiver’s presentation on “The Dignity Index" at the National School Board Association's annual conference, left a lasting impression. Read more from Melissa Burkland on the conference and this presentation.
Read more about the instructional material review process in this Feature Column by FPS Director of Standards-Based Instruction Dr. Liann Hanson.
Each year, FPS administration conducts an Administrative Policy review. Administrative Policies are reviewed on a set rotation, ensuring all policies are reviewed once in a four-year cycle. Through this review process, some policies do not require any changes while other policies receive minor updates or more substantial updates. For the 2024 review cycle, administration has been reviewing this year’s set of policies during the school year.
FPS is committed to providing students with high-quality instructional materials that support its strategic plan, align with curriculum standards, and promote inclusivity and diversity.
The U.S Dept. of Education released revisions Title IX the Education Amendments of 1972. Title IX protects people from discrimination based on sex in educational programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance.
As FPS continues towards fully implementing Evidence-Based Reporting by 2025-26, a PowerSchool update streamlines the parent/student view by combining EBR and traditional grading systems.
FPS is dedicated to implementing equitable processes to ensure all students are supported so each student can demonstrate proficiency in identified Essential Learning Outcomes.
As part of the Staff Recognition Program, staff and community members were invited to nominate a teacher, administrator, or support staff member that is serving our students with excellence. View the list.
The FPS Calendar Committee has developed the DRAFT for the District’s 2025-26 school calendar, which is now being prepared for review and approval by the Fargo Board of Education.
Thank you to all Fargo Public Schools library staff that make each of the libraries in the District special places for our students to grow! April 7-13, is National Library Week.
Congratulations to all Fargo Public Schools students who auditioned and were selected to participate in 2024 All-State and Honors musical performance groups!
The community has the power to help support visual and fine arts in FPS simply by recycling aluminum cans with the Arts CAN Do program. Funds raised directly benefit arts our arts programs.
March is National Social Workers Month! This March, we would like to recognize the social workers in Fargo Public Schools and the hard work they do to support our students. Thank you, social workers!
FPS will feature an array of enriching academic program opportunities for the 2024-25 school year. These programs are meticulously designed to cater to a diverse range of learning styles and academic needs.
During this school year, Fargo Public Schools is working on updating its Long-Range Facility Plan. Read about how FPS has worked diligently to engage the public during this process in this Board Column.