April 26, 2022
Bret Dockter, North Dakota’s 2022 Teacher of the Year was a guest presenter to the students in Mayville State University’s Introduction to Education class on Tuesday, April 19. The course is typically the first education course in which pre-service teachers enroll. All education majors take the course where they are introduced to the foundations of education, including classroom management, developing as a professional, and becoming an effective educator.
“We were honored to have Mr. Dockter visit our class and discuss the importance of involving students in service learning projects,” said Dr. Brittany Hagen, MSU Associate Professor of Education and instructor of the Introduction to Education course. “Mr. Dockter’s passion for not only service learning, but also the students he serves was evident. Our teacher candidates were inspired to connect future students with their communities too!”
Mr. Dockter is a sixth-grade teacher at B.M. Hanson Elementary School in Harvey. He was one of four finalists for the honor, which is presented each year. Dockter was recognized in the fall of 2021. He teaches social studies, science, and mathematics at Hanson, and coaches Harvey High School’s football team. He has been an educator for 23 years, including 11 in his current position.
Dockter is also North Dakota’s candidate for the national 2022 Teacher of the Year award, a program that is managed by the Council for Chief State School Officers, a Washington, D.C. organization that represents state education interests.