Board Member Election

School Board Election – June 9, 2026

The Bismarck School Board election will take place on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. The election will be conducted in conjunction with the State Primary Election at the polling places and times established by Burleigh County.

Positions to Be Filled

Three (3) School Board seats will be elected for four-year terms.

Candidates

Listed in ballot order:

Dr. Rod Jonas

Dr. Rod Jonas serves as Dean of the Liffrig Family School of Education and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Mary, where he is also a professor. He is the author of ‘Build a Dynamic Organizational Culture: A Seven-Step Team Approach’ and a recipient of the University of Mary’s ‘Regents Award’ for Excellence in Teaching. Dr. Jonas has held numerous leadership roles in education at the state and higher education levels. Dr. Jonas is married and has two children and four grandchildren, all of whom have attended or are currently attending Bismarck Public Schools.

Amanda J. Peterson (Incumbent)

Amanda J. Peterson has served on the Bismarck School Board since February 2023. She is a lifelong Bismarck resident and graduate of Bismarck High School. Peterson currently serves as Interim Assistant State Superintendent of Accountability and Engagement at the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction. Her background includes experience as a public school English teacher, instructional coach, and education leader at both the district and state levels.

Tony Aukland

Tony Aukland began his career as a high school teacher and coach. He currently serves as Technology Outreach, Awareness, and Education Director for the State of North Dakota. He holds degrees in mathematics education, computer science, and coaching from Valley City State University, along with a Master of Business Administration from the University of Mary. He has been involved in Bismarck Public Schools as a parent and volunteer for nearly 20 years.

Dr. Marijke Leibel

Marijke Leibel is an educator and Bismarck resident with experience in classroom teaching and teacher mentorship. She currently serves as Assistant Coordinator for the North Dakota RISE statewide mentoring program, supporting teacher development and retention. Leibel holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Mary and is actively involved in community and volunteer initiatives. She is a parent of four students who have attended or are currently attending Bismarck Public Schools.

 

Additional information about polling locations, voting hours, and the election process is available at https://www.burleigh.gov/elections/

 

Who Is Eligible?

Any individual who is a qualified elector of North Dakota, and is a resident of the Bismarck Public School District
is eligible to serve as a school board member.