Principal Appreciation

May 1st is National Principal Appreciation Day and to commemorate this special occasion, I thank all of our local principals! You play an important role in our children’s school experiences, supporting students, teachers, and families—and I thank you for your dedication. According to Educators Writers Association, the first principals arose in the early 19th century […]
The ‘Crying Indian’

Does anyone remember a TV commercial in which a Native American was paddling his canoe and he came across a polluted river? When he saw that, he shed a single tear. It was called the “Crying Indian,” a famous 1971 public service announcement from the Keep America Beautiful campaign featuring Iron Eyes Cody witnessing trash […]
Answering Some Questions…

It’s Your Paper…“I started reading the Northern Sentry as soon as we knew we were coming to the Minot Air Force Base.” We hear that statement so many times over and over again when we introduce ourselves to new faces at a Military Affairs Committee meeting. Having good connections with folks on base is certainly […]
Sentinels Surge Through Spring: Wins, Grit, and Momentum Across All Programs

The Minot North varsity girls soccer team had itself a week to remember. With a strong week across the board, all three programs are picking up key wins and building early-season momentum. From clutch finishes on the soccer field to explosive performances in softball and a competitive split for baseball on the road, the Sentinels […]
Continuing to Cherish our Military-Connected Children

This month was extremely active! We celebrated military-connected children in various ways throughout this Month of the Military Child (MOMC), but some standout events include: North Dakota’s MOMC Proclamation Signing at Grand Forks AFB, Minot’s MOMC Proclamation Signing at City Hall, Dakota Elementary School’s MOMC Assembly, North Plains Elementary School’s MOMC Assembly, and Clap-Ins at […]
Fire-Smart Starts Here: SPARKY’s April Safety Tips
Whim–Low Stress Day Trips from Minot

Spring in North Dakota is both beautiful and unpredictable. We’ll see high temperatures nearing 70˚ in the same week we get an inch or two of snow. You really never know. And to me, that’s part of the fun. By spring, I’m ready to soak up fresh air, anxiously observe plants peeking up from the […]
A Lot Can Happen…

My schedule is often pretty crazy. This last week in particular had me traveling to Fargo one day and spending an evening at the Peace Garden where CEO Tim Chapman took us inside the conservatory for a late afternoon tour. Years ago, I did a news story with Don Vitko from Minot. Mr. Vitko had […]
Take a staycation this year

My wife and I have been watching a Canadian TV show called Sullivan’s Crossing that airs on CTV Sunday night and on the CW in the United States on Monday night. It’s set in the Maritime province of Nova Scotia and is actually filmed in a suburb of Halifax. Sullivan’s Crossing is a fictional campground […]
Lunch Visits

You are welcome to visit with your student during lunch. Did you know that? You can! Not only that, you should. I recommend doing this for three reasons: 1. Time is short, 2. Positivity breeds success, and 3. It’s good for your brain. If you do not homeschool, your child attends—on average—1,000 hours of school […]