Who’s the Best History Teacher in North Dakota? You Get to Decide

If you’ve ever had a history teacher who could make the past feel less like dusty dates and more like a blockbuster movie, here’s your chance to give them the spotlight they deserve.

The Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation is rolling out a pretty fun (and meaningful) opportunity with its Best History Teacher in North Dakota contest—and honestly, it’s about time these classroom legends got a little extra credit.

Get our free mobile app

History Comes Alive: North Dakota Students Invited to Spotlight Their Favorite Teacher

The contest is all part of the lead-up to the Back-To-School & Celebrate History Night at the Medora Musical on August 15, 2026. And yes, it’s exactly as cool as it sounds.

Here’s how it works: students across North Dakota are invited to nominate that one teacher who somehow makes history click. You know the one—maybe they turn lessons into storytelling sessions, bring in wild historical facts you actually remember, or somehow make you care about things that happened 200 years ago.

All you need to do is submit a short write-up (two pages or less) explaining what makes your teacher stand out. Keep it real, keep it specific, and most importantly—show how they make history come alive.

Read More: North Dakota Population Hits Record High Nearing 800,000

Big Rewards for North Dakota’s History Heroes: Cash, Concert, and a Getaway

And the prizes? Not too shabby. One grand prize winner will score $1,000 for classroom supplies (which let’s be honest, teachers always need), while four finalists will each receive $500. All five winners will also get a pair of tickets to the Medora Musical and a one-night stay at Elkhorn Quarters—because even history heroes deserve a getaway.

But wait, there’s more—because Medora doesn’t do anything halfway.

The August 15 celebration is shaping up to be a full-on family day. Think back-to-school shopping, a meet-and-greet with the musical cast, free live music from Elizabeth Collin, and some pretty sweet food perks (free hot dogs and popcorn for the kids—instant win). The night wraps up with the main event and even a post-show party.

Bottom line: if a teacher has ever made you laugh, think, or actually enjoy learning about the past, this is your moment to return the favor.

Ready to nominate? Click here and tell their story. Who knows—you might just help crown North Dakota’s best history teacher.