08/19/2026
Thank you, Col Zeigler, for sharing your appreciation for the MPS staff and ushering in a spectacular 26/27 SY at today's Welcome Ceremony held at Minot North High School's Football Stadium!
Additional speakers: Minot City Manager, Tom Joyce; MEA President and 5th grade teacher at Washington, Mrs. Peg Morris; MNHS Senior, Harrison Shafer; 25/26 Teacher of the Year, Melissa Weaver; 26/27 Teacher of the Year, Ali Monley; MPS School Board President, Mr. Scott Louser, and MPS Supt, Dr. Scott Faul.
A young student named Ethan kicked off the event by leading the 900 staff and community guests in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
Some noteworthy remarks:
"Our relationship with the [Minot] Air Force Base is strong. We communicate and collaborate regularly." -Tom Joyce
"I've known a lot of educators, lunch ladies, and dudes [audience laughs] their entire lives. If you're walking down the hall and say something good to a kid - they're going to remember that. I have an 8th grade teacher who sends me a message every Veteran's Day." -Col Zeigler, 5th MSG Commander
"Leadership isn't about being the loudest in the room. It's what you do every day." -Harrison Shafer
"Student connection is important; being the heartbeat. Look students in the eye and ensure they're seen." -Melissa Weaver
"Our places are set. [Beautiful speech equating teaching to a theatre production]. We have many moments to make an impact." - Allie Monley
"We're tied for 2nd in the nation for NAEP scores. We need to promote the good in Minot Public." -Mr. Scott Louser
"I hope you had time to slow down over the summer. Now, start fresh. Give your students, [fellow] staff, and yourself a clean slate. The past is there for us to learn from, but we don't have to carry it along with us. We can't control a lot of things, but we can control our attitude, how we prepare, and how we treat people." -Dr. Scott Faul
[I apologize for any misspelled names; the above quotes are paraphrased and sandwiched in larger contexts that aid in complete understanding of message - these are the lines that most resonated with me.]
Here's to a great SY, Minot Public Schools!