Napoleon ag instructor named Teacher of the Year
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BISMARCK - Brian Schneider, an agricultural education teacher at Napoleon Public School and Harvey native, has been named North Dakota's 2027 Teacher of the Year, State Superintendent Levi Bachmeier and Gov. Kelly Armstrong announced in a joint announcement Thursday, Sept. 24.
Schneider said his commitment to building confidence in students is central to his teaching philosophy. "I simply have a genuine interest in every student in our small rural school, and I take the time to get to know each student I have in class," Schneider wrote in his Teacher of the Year application. "Knowledge is power, but confidence is king. If a student believes they can achieve, they will achieve."
Schneider, who has taught agricultural education for 40 years, including 35 at Napoleon Public School, instructs students in grades seven through 12 in subjects ranging from Exploring Agriculture to Community Development. He also oversees the school's Cooperative Work Experience Program.
"Brian Schneider's work reflects the commitment and student‑focused mindset that define North Dakota's best educators," Bachmeier said. "What stands out isn't just what he teaches, but how he teaches. His humility, sincere care for students and passion for agricultural education are evident in everything he does. That combination makes a lasting, positive impact on the students he serves; North Dakota needs more veteran teachers like Schneider."
Under Schneider’s leadership, Napoleon's FFA chapter has earned more than 150 state individual and team championships, three national championships in the Agricultural Sales Career Development Event and numerous top‑10 national finishes.
Schneider graduated from North Dakota State University in 1986 with a bachelor's degree in agricultural education and composite science. He has served as president of the North Dakota Association of Agricultural Educators, on the North Dakota FFA Advisory Council and State Board, and as a mentor to new teachers through the North Dakota Teacher Support System.
Schneider will begin his term as North Dakota's Teacher of the Year on Jan. 1.