Charles Crane/MDN Ely Elementary Principal Jason Gullickson, left, Teacher of the Year nominee Andee Mattson, North Dakota State School Superintendent Kirsten Baesler and Rugby Superintendent Mike McNeff are shown during the celebration of Mattson at Ely Elementary in Rugby on Wednesday.

RUGBY — A local educator has been named as one of the four finalists for the 2024 North Dakota Teacher of the Year. Elementary school music teacher and choir director Andee Mattson was feted at a celebration before Ely Elementary students and staff on Wednesday morning, with an introduction by North Dakota State School Superintendent Kirsten Baesler.

Of the 10,000 teachers educating children in North Dakota, only 42 who were winners of their respective county Teacher of the Year are eligible for the state award. Even then, they must go through the steps of applying for consideration and supplying letters of support from students and peers.

Mattson has been teaching elementary music for 14 years, after matriculating to North Dakota State University for her undergraduate and master’s degree in music. Mattson estimated that she has had around 900 students pass through her classroom in Ely.

Baesler highlighted the myriad of contributions that Mattson has made not only in her classrooms but also as coach of school’s Lego League guided robotics program.

“It doesn’t feel right to be standing up here alone when really this honor could be given to any of the teachers in this room. I have been lucky enough to teach here all 14 years of my career and I can say with confidence that Rugby has some of the best teachers, staff and administration in the state,” Mattson said. “I truly do believe I have the best job there is. I spend my days singing, dancing, playing instruments and games every single day. How many adults get to say that?”

Mattson will join her fellow finalists at a ceremony on Sept. 28 in the state Capitol’s Memorial Hall, where Baesler and Lt. Gov. Tammy Miller will announce the state winner.