The Bismarck Public Schools District and Foundation are grieving the loss of Mr. Jim Jeske after a lengthy battle with cancer. Mr. Jeske grew up in the small town of New England, North Dakota, and worked in a variety of educational roles prior to joining BPS in the year 2000. During his 23 years working for the district he served as a teacher at Centennial elementary, principal at Solheim elementary, and most recently as principal of Pioneer Elementary where he worked for over nine years. Apart from his career as a teacher and administrator, Mr. Jeske also coached basketball at Century High School and Bismarck State College.
In 2021, Mr. Jeske received a life-altering cancer diagnosis. He was open about his battle and embraced a message of gratitude that he shared with students and staff at Bismarck Public Schools. While he worked with his doctors on a treatment plan, he remained committed to his role as principal of Pioneer. In November of 2022, Mr. Jeske took the time to visit classrooms and share his message of gratitude, saying “Gratitude is a simple task, costs nothing, and is fun to share with others.” Mr. Jeske and Pioneer students and staff held a “White Out Walk” for Lung Cancer Awareness Month at Legacy High School where they were able to bring his message to a wider audience. These are only a few examples of how Mr. Jeske was able to impact the BPS community.
The thoughts and prayers of the Bismarck Public Schools District and Foundation are with his wife, three children, and the entire Jeske family during this difficult time. In memory of Jim’s legacy, we ask that each of us carry on his message of gratitude.
Jim Jeske’s obituary:
https://www.eastgatefuneral.com/obituaries/jim-jeske
A memorial fund has been established by the Jeske family in his honor: https://bpsfoundation.com/donations/jim-jeske/
