North Dakota State Superintendent of Public Instruction Kirsten Baesler was confirmed Friday by the U.S. Senate to serve as Assistant Secretary of Elementary and Secondary Education in the U.S. Department of Education, a top leadership role overseeing federal policy for the nation’s K-12 schools.
“I am honored, humbled, and incredibly excited to have received this final vote of confidence from the U.S. Senate,” Baesler said following her confirmation. “I am especially grateful to North Dakota Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer for their support, their leadership, and their commitment to ensuring the confirmation process continued to move forward for nominees committed to public service.”
Baesler’s confirmation finalizes her February nomination by U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and President Donald J. Trump.
Although the Senate has approved her appointment, Baesler said the ongoing federal government shutdown will delay when she can be sworn in and assume her duties.
“Like others affected by the shutdown, I’m in a holding pattern,” Baesler said. “The Department of Education is currently unable to onboard new appointees or administer the constitutional oath of office. I look forward to serving in this new role and will resign from state service and join Secretary McMahon and the department’s leadership team once operational logistics permit, and I have ensured a smooth and effective transition.”
Baesler, 56, has served as North Dakota’s State Superintendent since 2013 and has been recognized nationally for her leadership in personalized learning, school accountability reform, and teacher workforce innovation. She also led the development of North Dakota’s “Choice Ready” initiative, which ensures students graduate prepared for college, careers, or military service.
As Assistant Secretary of Elementary and Secondary Education, Baesler will lead the federal office responsible for developing, implementing, and supporting K-12 education policy nationwide, a role central to advancing student achievement and strengthening America’s public schools.