Today in Minot

North Dakota students have a chance to turn creativity into action with the 57th annual Keep North Dakota Clean (KNDC) contest. Open to PreK-8 students and those with special abilities, the contest challenges participants to create artwork promoting environmental stewardship, with winning designs displayed on billboards...

**Jaime Izurieta is an architect, designer and author from Montclair, New Jersey, who focuses on the interaction between users and the built environment.** He’s also the founder of Storefront Mastery, an award-winning creative agency that works with place management organizations to design and activate interactions between...

BISMARCK, N.D. – The State Historical Society of North Dakota invites educators to attend the 2025 Summer Teacher Institute workshop, “Frontier to Frontlines: North Dakota’s Military Legacy,” July 21-24 at the Ronald Reagan Minuteman Missile State Historic Site in Cooperstown. This free workshop is a collaboration...

AI isn’t just something happening to students in one Denver civics class—it’s something they’re actively shaping. From chatbots that refine movie recommendations to tools that help Gen Z improve communication, students at DSST: College View High School are learning to harness AI’s power rather than fear it. As part of a national AI education initiative, their teachers aim to prepare them for a future where understanding AI isn’t optional. The lesson is clear: those who engage with technology will shape its impact.

This story from EdSurge represents the reality our education systems need to quickly embrace — how do we use this technology rather than trying to force students into the paradigms of the past and soon-to-be archaic systems.

At Dakota College at Bottineau (DCB), we’re shaping the future guardians of our environment. Our comprehensive natural resource programs don’t just teach – they empower students to become skilled environmental stewards who make a real difference in protecting our world’s precious resources.  As one of our state’s premier environmental education institutions, we offer four specialized programs through our Career and Technical Education (CTE) curriculum:

• Natural Resource Management
• Recreation Management
• Urban Forest Management
• Wildlife and Fisheries Technology

Each program leads to an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree or Certificate, providing you with practical, hands-on experience in real-world conservation scenarios. Our students don’t just learn about nature – they’re out in the field, developing crucial skills in environmental problem-solving, resource and habitat management, data collection, and conservation strategies.  Second year Natural Resources student at DCB, Monica Yoder shares,  “I chose DCB because of its strong background in Natural Resource and Wildlife and Fisheries degrees.”

Her experience reflects our program’s reputation for excellence in environmental education.  Our graduates emerge ready for immediate employment in diverse and rewarding careers across state and federal wildlife agencies, parks and recreation departments, environmental consulting firms, conservation organizations, and more!  For those seeking to advance their education, our program provides a solid foundation for transferring to four-year Bachelor of Science programs. Whether you’re launching directly into a career or continuing your education, DCB’s natural resource programs open doors to meaningful opportunities in environmental stewardship.

Join others in protecting our planet’s future. Discover how a DCB education can launch your career in natural resource management.  Learn more about our Natural Resource programs at [www.dakotacollege.edu/academics/programs](http://www.dakotacollege.edu/academics/programs)

For decades, scientists believed Earth’s inner core was a solid sphere of iron and nickel. New research suggests otherwise. USC scientists have discovered that the inner core’s edges are softer and shifting, deformed by the turbulence of the molten outer core. The finding came unexpectedly as researchers studied the core’s slowing rotation. While the full implications aren’t yet clear, the discovery could help unravel deeper mysteries about Earth’s magnetic and thermal systems—another clue in the planet’s ever-evolving puzzle.

Get more on the story from the Los Angeles Times.

Oxford scientists have taken a bold step toward the future of quantum computing—teleporting quantum information between processors without losing performance. Unlike traditional data transfers, this method uses quantum entanglement to shift information instantly, paving the way for scalable, networked quantum systems. While the experiment spanned just six feet, it proved that quantum processors can be linked, creating a flexible system that could revolutionize computing. As researchers refine this technology, the dream of a quantum-powered internet is inching closer to reality.

For a deeper dive into the weird world of quantum mechanics, being two places at once, and the frontier of computing, Science Alert has more.

Education isn’t just about math and reading—it’s about preparing kids for life. Schools often claim to support the “whole child,” but too often, that stops at test scores. True wellness means addressing students’ emotional, financial, physical, and social needs alongside academics. Some students, like Rob, thrive with clear goals, while others, like Nas, need more support beyond the classroom. When schools take a holistic approach—teaching financial literacy, emotional regulation, and healthy living—students aren’t just learning; they’re growing into well-rounded, resilient adults.

That’s the message from Gene Fashaw writing at EdSurge. It’s a challenging environment for our educators as we identify more of what students need, but face the daunting challenge of delivering it with less and less support financially and otherwise.

Referees in Nebraska say enough is enough. With verbal abuse and physical assaults on the rise—even at youth games—they’re calling for stronger penalties to protect officials and curb bad behavior. A new bill would make assaulting a referee a felony, carrying the possibility of prison time. Supporters argue tougher consequences will make spectators think twice, while critics say existing laws are enough. With a referee shortage already affecting high school sports, lawmakers now face a choice: take action or risk losing even more officials.

Get the full story from Paul Hammel writing for the Nebraska Examiner.

Groundhog Day was Feb. 2 and Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, which means another six weeks of winter. I don’t know about you, but this isn’t a shock for me. Most North Dakotans come to expect this prediction. As gardeners in the North, winter can seem...

At Lake Minnewasta, winter’s deep freeze became a canvas for creativity. As part of Morden’s Multicultural Winterfest, teams of carvers turned massive ice blocks into shimmering sculptures—maple leaves, film tributes, and abstract forms reflecting both skill and imagination. Architect Peter Hargraves, who has helped harvest the ice for years, says the artistry keeps evolving alongside the tradition. For now, the sculptures stand at Colert Beach, waiting for visitors—until Mother Nature reclaims them, setting the stage for next year’s frozen masterpieces.

Get the full story from Discover Westman.

With coal plants shutting down, communities in northwest Colorado are searching for what’s next. One idea? Storing spent nuclear fuel. A regional energy group is exploring the possibility of a temporary waste facility, drawing both interest and concern. Supporters see it as an economic opportunity, while critics worry about safety and the region becoming a nuclear dumping ground. The federal government is taking proposals, but for now, the conversation is just beginning—and the stakes couldn’t be higher for the communities involved.

After a day spent on the ice, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chowder to bring comfort. R3 Coordinator Cayla Bendel shares an easy and flavorful pike chowder recipe that highlights simple ingredients and straightforward steps. With the rich blend of fish, bacon, and cream, this dish warms up any cold evening. Gather your ingredients and prepare to enjoy this hearty meal that’s perfect for cozy nights in. Here’s how to make it.

A federal push to cap research funding overhead at 15% has university leaders on edge, with UND facing millions in potential shortfalls. The cuts, temporarily blocked by a judge, could hit crucial medical research, including studies on Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Supporters argue the move directs more money to actual research, but university officials warn it will force cutbacks and threaten long-term projects. With no clear guidance from the NIH, the uncertainty leaves researchers and administrators bracing for impact.

The Grand Forks Herald has the full story.

With teacher shortages hitting rural schools hard, South Dakota is turning to international educators to keep classrooms staffed. More than 400 foreign teachers now work in the state, many from the Philippines, bringing years of experience and a commitment to students. Schools like Crow Creek Tribal School have embraced the program, prioritizing certified teachers over virtual instruction. The transition isn’t easy—winter alone is a shock—but for these teachers, the opportunity is life-changing, both for their students and for the families they support back home.

Why does this matter in North Dakota? We’ve got worker shortages in many professions; we need to be on the lookout for solutions wherever they may come.

The Lifelong Learning Institute announced five classes for ceramics in January and is offering seven new classes from a range of disciplines including: Bead Bracelet Bonanza, Building Resilience — One Thought at a Time, DIY T-Shirt Night, Pickleball 101, Intermediate Pickleball, Race to the Top (Rockwall...

For cancer patients, time is everything—but insurance red tape can delay lifesaving treatment. A North Dakota Senate committee unanimously advanced a bill to streamline prior authorization, the process requiring doctors to get insurer approval before treating patients. Supporters say Senate Bill 2280 will cut unnecessary delays and bring more transparency to the system, echoing reforms seen in other states. The bill now moves to the full Senate, where lawmakers will decide if North Dakotans facing serious diagnoses get a faster path to care.

The North Dakota State Fair is ramping up excitement for its 2025 lineup, announcing that Luke Bryan will headline the Country Showpass on Saturday, July 26. Known for his energetic performances and a catalog featuring 31 number-one singles, Bryan is set to deliver a memorable night....

North Central Judicial District Judge Douglas L. Mattson has announced that he will retire effective June 1, 2025. In a letter to Governor Kelly Armstrong and Chief Justice Jon Jensen, Judge Mattson said, "To the voters who allowed me to serve, I truly thank you. It...

North Dakota lawmakers pushed back against efforts to restrict carbon pipelines, rejecting six bills that would have imposed new taxes or regulations. Supporters argue these pipelines are key to extending the state’s oil production and keeping ethanol and coal plants viable. Opponents raised concerns over land rights and safety, particularly the risks of pipeline ruptures. Meanwhile, lawmakers signaled their continued support for enhanced oil recovery, backing a resolution to encourage carbon capture technology. The debate over land use and industry growth is far from over.

Jeff Beach with the North Dakota Monitor has the full story linked below.

A recent vote in the North Dakota Senate has dashed the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa’s plans to expand their gaming operations into Grand Forks County. Senate Bill 2376 aimed to allow the tribe to develop a $300 million resort and casino, potentially creating hundreds of jobs. However, concerns were raised regarding the tribe’s funding sources, including controversial remarks from Senator Diane Larson. The bill was ultimately defeated, leaving the tribe’s ambitious project in limbo for now.

This is a bill we’ve been following closely as it would have opened a new avenue of competition among North Dakota’s larger cities.

North Dakota lawmakers took a step toward school choice but stopped short of a sweeping change. House Bill 1540, which narrowly passed, would create education savings accounts but at a reduced funding level, easing in over time. Meanwhile, three similar bills failed, and one final proposal, Senate Bill 2400, still awaits a vote. Supporters see ESAs as a way to give parents more options, while opponents argue they divert crucial funding from public schools. The debate isn’t over—especially with constitutional concerns in play.

Grant Coursey with the Bismarck Tribune has the full update. Bill details can be found below.

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North Dakota is moving forward with a proposal to offer drivers blackout license plates, following a strong vote in the state Senate. On February 14, the Senate approved Senate Bill 2133 with a 39-5 vote. These sleek black plates with white lettering aim to provide residents with a modern alternative, similar to options already popular in neighboring states. Implementation could cost around $1.5 million over four years, but with potential revenue from sales, this initiative may find broad support as it heads to the House for consideration.

The Minot State Department of Science is gearing up for its annual Science Open House on February 18, welcoming regional students from grades two through eight. This event, a staple for decades, invites around 300 young scientists to engage in hands-on demonstrations and enjoy scheduled Magic Shows in Hoffman Auditorium. Set amid the Cyril Moore Science Center and Swain Hall, the day promises to spark curiosity and foster a love for science among the next generation.

Federal employees across Wyoming are waking up to pink slips, but clarity remains elusive. Layoffs swept through multiple agencies, leaving workers stunned, communities uncertain, and critical services in limbo. Those affected—many on probationary status—describe a chaotic process with little explanation, deepening fears for public lands, permitting backlogs, and strained resources.

While state leaders praise the cuts as a win for efficiency, conservationists and tribal advocates warn of long-term consequences, particularly for Native communities. As agencies stay silent, the fallout continues—both for those who lost their jobs and the public who relied on their work.