FROM: Bismarck Public Schools Foundation
128 Soo Line
Bismarck, ND 58503
www.bpsfoundation.com
CONTACT: Tahlia Nygaard, BPSF Development Director
tahlia_nygaard@bismarckschools.org
701-323-4093
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Bismarck Public Schools Foundation is proud to announce the establishment of the Dr. Jeff and Lisa Fastnacht Scholarship to honor a shared commitment to public education and the belief that great educators have the power to transform lives, strengthen communities, and shape the future.
Together, Jeff and Lisa Fastnacht have devoted more than six decades to serving students and schools across both South Dakota and North Dakota. Both began their educational careers in Britton, South Dakota, before continuing their service in communities across the region. Lisa served students in Ellendale Public Schools from 1996 to 2018 as an elementary teacher and later as a Title I teacher, where she dedicated her talents to supporting students with the greatest academic needs. In 2018, she joined Mandan Public Schools as an English Language (EL) teacher, helping students overcome language barriers and develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed in school and beyond. Her career has been defined by a deep commitment to ensuring every child feels supported, valued, and capable of reaching their full potential.
Jeff’s educational leadership career in North Dakota began in 1996 as the elementary principal and Technology Director in Ellendale Public Schools. In 2002, he became superintendent of Ellendale Public Schools, serving the district for sixteen years. In 2018, he joined Mandan Public Schools as assistant superintendent before becoming superintendent of Bismarck Public Schools in 2023. Throughout his career, Jeff has remained committed to supporting students, developing educators, and creating opportunities for schools and communities to thrive.
Recognizing the ongoing need to recruit, develop, and retain outstanding educators, the Fastnachts created this scholarship to encourage young people to pursue careers in education and to celebrate the meaningful impact teachers make in the lives of children every day.
The scholarship provides an annual award of $500 to a graduating senior who plans to pursue a degree in education at an accredited college or university in North Dakota or South Dakota. The scholarship alternates annually between students graduating from Bismarck Public Schools and Ellendale Public Schools, reflecting two communities that played a significant role in the Fastnachts’ educational careers and their commitment to public education.
It is the hope of Jeff and Lisa Fastnacht that this scholarship will inspire future educators to lead with purpose, serve with compassion, and make a lasting difference in the lives of their students.
Additional scholarship information, including applicant criteria and application form as well as ways to contribute can be found here: https://bpsfoundation.com/project/dr-jeff-and-lisa-fastnacht-scholarship/
