How to Become a Kindergarten Teacher in North Dakota for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Aspiring educators often find North Dakota’s kindergarten teacher certification process difficult to navigate due to unclear requirements and multiple licensure routes. The state has reported a 12% vacancy rate for kindergarten teachers in rural districts, highlighting the growing demand for qualified educators. However, many candidates are still uncertain about how to navigate the process effectively.

This article, prepared by career planning experts, will help you understand North Dakota’s certification requirements, the necessary exams, and application procedures. It will guide you through each step to help you confidently pursue a kindergarten teaching career in the state.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Kindergarten Teacher in North Dakota

• North Dakota requires a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from a program approved by the NDSEB, typically totaling 120 credit hours, including a practicum.
• Candidates must pass the Praxis Core and Early Childhood exams, which have an approximate 80% statewide pass rate, although alternative assessments are available.
• To maintain licensure, North Dakota teachers must complete 75 hours of professional development every five years, with the option to fulfill requirements through alternative programs.
• The median salary for kindergarten teachers in North Dakota is $61,200 per year as of 2023, with rural districts offering 5% to 10% salary supplements.
• Kindergarten teaching positions in North Dakota are projected to grow by 5% through 2028, though opportunities may be affected by district consolidation.

Table of Contents

1. What qualifications do you need to become a kindergarten teacher in North Dakota?
2. What skills are important for a successful kindergarten teacher in North Dakota?
3. What is the average salary of a kindergarten teacher in North Dakota?
4. What are the job responsibilities of a kindergarten teacher in North Dakota?
5. How can you get teaching experience for kindergarten in North Dakota?
6. What is the job outlook for kindergarten teachers in North Dakota?
7. Can kindergarten teachers pursue dual certification opportunities with special education in North Dakota?
8. How do kindergarten and preschool teacher qualifications differ in North Dakota?
9. What are the challenges of being a kindergarten teacher in North Dakota?
10. What are the key differences in certification between public and private kindergarten teaching roles in North Dakota?
11. What are the career advancement opportunities for kindergarten teachers in North Dakota?
12. What continuing education opportunities are available for kindergarten teachers in North Dakota?
13. How can you find a job as a kindergarten teacher in North Dakota?
14. What are the best resources for kindergarten teachers in North Dakota?
15. How can you minimize certification expenses as a kindergarten teacher in North Dakota?
16. Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Kindergarten Teacher in North Dakota

What qualifications do you need to become a kindergarten teacher in North Dakota?

To become a kindergarten teacher in North Dakota, there are several key qualifications you'll need to meet. Here are the essential requirements to pursue this career in the state:

• Enroll in a Bachelor’s Degree Program: Choose a program approved by the Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB) that includes early childhood coursework, practicum hours, and student teaching placements in diverse kindergarten classrooms. Many students opt for an affordable online bachelor's in education to meet these requirements with greater flexibility.
• Pass the Praxis Exams: You’ll need to pass the Praxis Core Academic Skills tests (reading, writing, and math) as well as the Praxis Early Childhood Content Knowledge exam. Consider utilizing review sessions or online workshops for focused exam preparation.
• Submit Your Application for Initial Licensure: Apply to the ESPB for your teaching license by submitting official transcripts and Praxis scores. Be prepared for the 6–8-week processing period, so plan for at least a two-month lead time.
• Complete Fingerprinting and Background Check: You’ll need to undergo fingerprinting and a criminal background check through the North Dakota Department of Public Safety to meet state law requirements.
• Join the Beginning Teacher Induction Program: Once licensed, you’ll participate in this program, which pairs you with experienced mentors to develop classroom management, curriculum design, and reflective teaching practices.

What skills are important for a successful kindergarten teacher in North Dakota?

A successful kindergarten teacher in North Dakota must possess a variety of skills to effectively teach young students and foster a positive learning environment. Below are the key skills that contribute to success in this role:

1. Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Clear communication is often assumed to be innate, yet effective conferences with families and collaborative planning with support staff require deliberate practice. Teachers refine bilingual outreach strategies in districts with Native American populations, challenging the notion that one communication style fits all.

2. Patience and Emotional Resilience

Patience is not a fixed trait but a capacity that grows through reflective practice. Managing high-energy five‑ and six‑year‑olds across rural and urban settings tests emotional stamina, prompting educators to explore mindfulness or peer coaching rather than relying on resilience alone.

3. Instructional Planning and Assessment Expertise

Beyond adhering to the North Dakota Early Learning Guidelines, successful teachers question whether state benchmarks fully address local needs. They design lessons that integrate STEM initiatives and leverage formative assessments to adjust instruction in real time, rather than treating data as a static report.

4. Classroom Management and Adaptability

Multi‑grade classrooms demand flexible discipline systems. While PBIS offers a statewide framework, teachers often customize behavior interventions to reflect community values, acknowledging that uniform models can fall short in remote or resource‑scarce districts.

5. Cultural Responsiveness

Embedding tribal histories and languages involves more than curriculum add‑ons; it requires co‑creating lesson plans with elders and families. This approach challenges educators to move beyond tokenism and genuinely honor local cultures at every instructional turn.

6. Collaboration and Reflective Practice

Joining Professional Learning Communities fosters shared expertise, but teams must guard against groupthink by inviting diverse viewpoints. Regular peer observations and critical feedback cycles ensure continuous growth aligned with North Dakota’s licensure renewal standards.

What is the average salary of a kindergarten teacher in North Dakota?

The average salary for a kindergarten teacher in North Dakota reflects steady growth and opportunity for advancement. Entry-level teachers typically earn around $47,810, while those in the 25th percentile make approximately $53,200. The median salary stands at $61,200, with experienced educators in leadership or specialized roles often earning above $70,000. The 90th percentile reaches $82,890, indicating strong potential for salary progression through experience and credentials.

The state’s mean wage of $63,010 slightly exceeds the national average of $62,690. While these numbers may seem modest compared to major urban areas, the cost of living in North Dakota helps stretch income further. Teachers can boost earnings through advanced degrees, state certifications, or administrative positions, turning the base salary into a springboard for growth, with some pursuing online teaching master's programs to reach these goals.

What are the job responsibilities of a kindergarten teacher in North Dakota?

Kindergarten teachers in North Dakota take on a blend of academic and developmental responsibilities, guided by the state’s Early Learning Guidelines. Here are the main job responsibilities of a kindergarten teacher in North Dakota:

• Designing Standards-Aligned Lessons: Create play-based lessons in literacy, math, science, and social studies that meet North Dakota’s Early Learning Guidelines.
• Administering Kindergarten Entry Profile: Complete and analyze this state-mandated assessment within the first 30 days to understand each child’s readiness level.
• Using Formative Assessments: Conduct observations, checklists, and anecdotal notes to track progress and guide instruction.
• Supporting Social-Emotional Growth: Teach self-regulation, conflict-resolution, and cooperative play as key components of early learning.
• Collaborating with Specialists: Partner with special education teams, counselors, and therapists to support students with IEPs.
• Engaging Families: Maintain strong communication through conferences, newsletters, and shared learning goals to extend education beyond the classroom.
• Fulfilling Licensing and Reporting Requirements: Submit readiness reports, maintain licensure through Praxis and professional development, and adapt instruction based on assessment data.

How can you get teaching experience for kindergarten in North Dakota?

​To gain teaching experience for kindergarten in North Dakota, you can pursue various pathways, including formal education programs, student teaching placements, and alternative licensure options. Below are the primary routes to acquiring the necessary experience:​

1. Student Teaching Practicums

Collaborating with local schools often means completing dual placements—one urban, one rural—so candidates can gain kindergarten teaching experience in North Dakota while testing their own ability to design engaging lessons and manage diverse groups. This method invites students to question whether short‑term placements truly reflect the full cycle of a kindergarten year or if they mask deeper challenges in behavior management.

2. Alternative Licensure Roles

Enrolling in the ND Alternative Teaching license or working as a paraprofessional reveals how mentorship shapes classroom confidence; entry wages of $13–$15 per hour raise questions about equity in teacher preparation. Meanwhile, evaluating top online education degrees may expose programs with integrated practicum hours and substitute authorizations.

3. Community and Cultural Internships

Programs such as Head Start partnerships and Tribal school placements target North Dakota kindergarten teaching internships by immersing candidates in culturally responsive pedagogy and prompting questions about equity, too often glossed over in standard programs.

What is the job outlook for kindergarten teachers in North Dakota?

The job outlook for kindergarten teachers in North Dakota shows steady growth, with a 6% increase projected by 2030, higher than the national average of 4%. However, the actual number of new positions is small, with only about 50 expected statewide. Most job opportunities are clustered in urban areas like Fargo, Grand Forks, and Bismarck, while smaller communities often face staffing challenges and limited openings.

On average, North Dakota sees just 15 kindergarten teacher openings annually, compared to roughly 7,700 nationwide. Related roles like preschool, elementary, and special education teachers also show 5–8% growth, offering alternate paths. Overall, teaching kindergarten in North Dakota can offer job stability and strong community ties, though candidates must weigh the limited job market and modest salaries, especially in rural regions.

Can kindergarten teachers pursue dual certification opportunities with special education in North Dakota?

Pursuing dual certification can broaden a teacher’s skill set and open additional career pathways by addressing diverse learning needs. Integrating special education qualifications with early childhood education equips educators with strategies to support students who require tailored instruction. Combining these credentials not only enhances classroom versatility but also increases professional marketability in both general and specialized teaching roles. For details on the process and requirements, refer to our article on special education certification online North Dakota.

How do kindergarten and preschool teacher qualifications differ in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, kindergarten and preschool teaching roles share a commitment to early childhood education yet follow distinct certification standards and curricular focuses. Preschool educators often work with younger children whose learning experiences emphasize socialization and exploratory skills, requiring unique coursework and practical training. These differences also affect evaluation criteria and instructional methodologies, making it essential for educators to understand each pathway’s specific credentialing process. For more detailed information on the requirements, please review the preschool teacher qualifications in North Dakota.

What are the challenges of being a kindergarten teacher in North Dakota?

Kindergarten teachers in North Dakota face a distinct set of challenges shaped by rural settings, limited resources, and changing student needs. Here are the challenges many educators encounter:

• Rural Staffing and Multi-Grade Classrooms: In remote areas, teachers often manage combined grade levels due to staffing shortages. Balancing lesson plans across age groups adds complexity to daily instruction.
• Limited Access to Professional Development: Broadband limitations and long travel distances hinder participation in workshops and training, slowing the integration of new teaching methods.
• High Caseloads and Paperwork: Teachers regularly complete extensive IEP documentation and state assessments, which reduces time for collaborative planning and creativity.
• Behavioral and Social-Emotional Needs: With limited access to counselors and specialists, teachers must independently address social-emotional challenges, often without formal training.
• Work-Life Balance and Teacher Retention: Long hours and isolation lead to burnout and affect teacher retention, especially in rural districts with fewer support systems.
• Policy Changes and Funding Constraints: Shifting education policies and inconsistent funding create instability in staffing, resources, and classroom expectations.

What are the key differences in certification between public and private kindergarten teaching roles in North Dakota?

For educators exploring alternative pathways, understanding the distinct certification requirements is essential. Private school teaching in North Dakota often follows a more flexible licensure process, which may consider varied educational backgrounds and practical training experiences differently than public certification routes. Assess program rigor, accreditation standards, and support services carefully to ensure your chosen pathway meets your professional objectives. For a detailed guide, see how to become a private school teacher in North Dakota.

What are the career advancement opportunities for kindergarten teachers in North Dakota?

Kindergarten teachers in North Dakota can expand their career paths by pursuing leadership roles, curriculum development positions, and administrative responsibilities. Advancing beyond the classroom often involves targeted professional development, mentorship programs, and supplemental certifications that validate expertise and prepare educators for broader responsibilities. Many institutions provide in-house pathways that recognize classroom proficiency while encouraging additional training to support career transitions. Educators interested in these advanced roles should also review elementary school teacher requirements in North Dakota as complementary qualifications that may enhance their career portfolios.

What continuing education opportunities are available for kindergarten teachers in North Dakota?

Continuing education opportunities for kindergarten teachers in North Dakota include ND DPI-approved workshops, graduate courses, and online modules offered by institutions like the University of North Dakota and North Dakota State University. While these programs aim to support instructional growth, some educators question their effectiveness due to inconsistent quality and rising costs. Teachers often find themselves navigating courses that meet compliance requirements without addressing real classroom challenges.

Funding options such as Title II A grants and local levies help offset tuition, but these sources can fluctuate year to year. The teaching profession at the middle level often finds state-sponsored conferences and research initiatives valuable, though they may feel disconnected from immediate classroom needs. ND DPI’s online PD portal simplifies tracking, though rigid five-year renewal cycles sometimes discourage more flexible, timely learning experiences.

How can you find a job as a kindergarten teacher in North Dakota?

Securing a kindergarten teaching role in North Dakota demands strategic networking, vigilant application tracking, and targeted professional growth. Below are effective steps to increase your chances of landing a position:

• Monitor Job Boards Daily: Check the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction (NDDPI) certified vacancies page regularly, subscribe to email alerts, and search district-level listings on SchoolSpring and regional Facebook groups for early childhood career opportunities.
• Attend Hiring Events and Education Fairs: Participate in events hosted by the North Dakota Education Association and the Early Childhood Education Association, including job fairs, workshops, and district open houses to build rapport with school administrators and hiring teams.
• Accept Substitute Teaching Assignments: Work as a substitute teacher in under-staffed districts. This allows you to showcase your classroom management skills, earn strong references, and gain early notice of full-time openings.
• Customize Application Materials: Tailor your résumé and cover letter for each position. Use specific data points to highlight achievements in early literacy, differentiated instruction, and social–emotional development.
• Pursue Endorsements and Professional Development: Enroll in reading or special education endorsement programs approved by DPI. Use Teacher Incentive Fund reimbursements and highlight these credentials to show commitment to diverse student support.
• Build Your Online Presence: Create and maintain a professional LinkedIn profile, join regional educator networks, and directly message principals or school leaders to express interest and schedule informational interviews.

What are the best resources for kindergarten teachers in North Dakota?

​Kindergarten teachers in North Dakota have access to resources designed to enhance their instructional practices, support student development, and foster professional growth. Here are some of the top resources available:

• North Dakota Kindergarten Association (NDKA): NDKA offers a platform for early childhood educators to collaborate and advocate for best practices. They host annual conferences, such as the 2024 Fall Conference in Mandan, providing professional development and networking opportunities. ​
• North Dakota Department of Public Instruction (DPI) Professional Learning: DPI provides free online courses for educators, including "Demystifying Dyslexia" and "Pathways to Structured Literacy," aimed at enhancing instructional strategies and understanding of student needs.
• ND Standards-Based Learning (NDSBL): NDSBL offers proficiency scales and instructional plans for core subjects, developed by North Dakota teachers, to support the implementation of state content standards in the classroom. ​
• IXL Skill Plans Aligned with ND Standards: IXL provides skill plans that align with North Dakota's kindergarten content standards, offering interactive exercises in math and language arts to reinforce classroom learning. ​
• ND RISE Mentoring Program: For beginning teachers, the ND RISE program offers mentorship, resources, and structured support to ease the transition into the teaching profession and promote effective instructional practices. ​

How can you minimize certification expenses as a kindergarten teacher in North Dakota?

To reduce certification expenses while meeting North Dakota’s licensure standards, educators may explore alternative preparation programs, grant opportunities, and cost-sharing arrangements offered by local institutions. Research shows that optimizing educational investments includes selecting accelerated pathways and state-approved financial assistance programs. In addition, prospective teachers should compare program fees, examine bundled practicum costs, and consider online modules that lower overall expenses. For further guidance on reducing certification costs, review the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in North Dakota to identify budget-friendly certification options without compromising quality.

Here's What Kindergarten Teachers Have to Say About Their Career in North Dakota

In North Dakota, I’ve found a career that challenges me every day while giving me a sense of community and belonging. The demand for dedicated teachers is high, and I’ve had incredible opportunities to mentor younger teachers in my second year. There’s no greater joy than watching a child’s face light up as they master something new. — Izzy

After decades of teaching in a small North Dakota town, I can honestly say that there’s no place I’d rather be. The close-knit community, supportive colleagues, and access to continuing education make this career deeply fulfilling. Every day, I get to help shape the future, and that’s the most rewarding part of this job. — Carlos

Teaching kindergarten in Grand Forks has been a balancing act of family, work, and personal growth. With flexible online courses and a manageable cost of living, I was able to earn my early childhood certification while still spending weekends exploring the beautiful outdoors. The sense of accomplishment when I see my students succeed is priceless. — Kian

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Kindergarten Teacher in North Dakota

Can you specialize in certain areas of early childhood education as a kindergarten teacher in North Dakota?

Yes, kindergarten teachers in North Dakota can specialize in areas like special education, English language learning, literacy, STEM, or arts integration. To specialize, teachers need additional endorsements or certifications. These require extra coursework, exams, and professional development units. Specializing helps teachers meet the diverse needs of students and enhances career prospects. Teachers should check with the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction for specific requirements and guidelines on endorsements.

Are there alternative routes to becoming a kindergarten teacher in North Dakota for career changers or non-traditional students?

Yes, North Dakota offers alternative routes to becoming a kindergarten teacher for career changers and non-traditional students. The Educator Preparation Programs (EPP) provide post-baccalaureate certification options, combining field experiences and coursework. Applicants need a bachelor’s degree and must pass exams and background checks. Alternative licensure programs like Troops to Teachers and TeachND fast-track certification by recognizing prior experience and offering flexible schedules, making it easier for professionals from diverse fields to transition into teaching.

What types of schools or educational settings hire kindergarten teachers in North Dakota?

Kindergarten teachers in North Dakota can work in various educational settings, including public school districts, charter schools, private and faith-based preschools, Head Start, and Early Head Start programs. Many community and tribal education centers also hire kindergarten teachers. Additionally, rural and urban elementary schools, early learning centers, non-profits, and virtual preschool programs provide employment opportunities. Teachers may also find roles in homeschooling cooperatives or regional child care collaboratives, offering diverse job prospects throughout the state.

What support systems are available for new kindergarten teachers in North Dakota during their first year?

New kindergarten teachers in North Dakota receive strong support through mentoring programs, induction initiatives, and professional development opportunities. The North Dakota Department of Public Instruction pairs new teachers with experienced mentors, offering guidance and feedback. Local school districts provide beginning teacher programs, covering topics like classroom management and curriculum planning. Professional associations, such as the North Dakota Education Association, also offer resources. Online communities and peer networks foster collaboration and provide opportunities for sharing advice and resources to help teachers succeed.

References:

• Average Kindergarten Teacher Salary in North Dakota, United States for 2025. (n.d.). World Salaries.
• Beginning Teacher Network | South East Education Cooperative. (n.d.). South East Education Cooperative.
• Careers in Education | University of North Dakota. (n.d.). University of North Dakota.
• Early Childhood - North Dakota Compass. (n.d.). North Dakota Compass.
• Early Childhood Education Degree Requirements | University of North Dakota. (n.d.). University of North Dakota.
• North Dakota Educators Hopeful Teacher Retention Task Force Sparks Fixes. (n.d.). ND United.
• North Dakota Families: Pandemic-Proof Early Education Program Available to 4-year-olds - Waterford.org. (n.d.). Waterford.org.
• Top 10 Challenges Preschool Teachers Face in 2025. (n.d.). Illumine.