NDSU education graduate honored with 2026 Fargo Public Schools Teacher of the Year

When Fargo Public Schools named Jim Urlacher the 2026 Teacher of the Year, the honor came as a surprise to the longtime educator. For Urlacher, a 2003 graduate of NDSU and Spanish teacher at Discovery Middle School, the recognition is less about individual achievement and more about the community he has built over two decades in the classroom.

“It feels unbelievable to have received this honor,” Urlacher said. “Our district is full of such amazing teachers, and I was surprised to have been named teacher of the year. I am proud of my 21-year career in Fargo Public Schools and pride myself on the relationships I have made with my colleagues, students and families while holding myself and my students to high standards.”

That balance of high expectations and meaningful relationships has defined Urlacher’s approach since he first stepped into a classroom. At Discovery Middle School, he strives to create a collaborative environment not only within his classroom walls but also across his building and district. Being recognized for that dedication, he said, is both humbling and affirming.

Urlacher credits much of his success to the foundation he built at NDSU, where he earned a degree in Spanish Education. He points to professors across multiple disciplines, from modern languages and English to political science and education, who helped shape his path to becoming the teacher he is today.

“They all helped me develop the skills and tools that I needed to be a successful teacher,” he said. “Those skills include having compassion for my students, having a passion for what I teach, having a toolbox full of resources to use to meet students’ needs, and most importantly, having respect for and pride in the teaching profession.”

One of the most transformative experiences of Urlacher’s college career was when he studied abroad in Cusco, Peru, living with a host family and attending language school. The experience broadened Urlacher’s worldview and deepened his cultural understanding, with those lessons continuing to shape his teaching to this day.

“It was the most amazing thing I have ever done,” he said. “I met many amazing people, formed friendships and bonds that still last today.”

Urlacher has returned to Cusco six times, even leading groups of educators to learn about the country and hike the Inca Trail. His host family remains dear to him, and the global perspective he gained is something he encourages all future educators to pursue.

During his time at NDSU, Urlacher found confidence through hands-on learning. Many of his professors were former high school teachers who modeled effective instruction and brought real-world experience into their college classrooms.

“It was amazing to see teaching in action in a way that excited and motivated me to do the best that I could,” he said. “They all had such high standards, and at the same time, the highest level of support for me and my classmates. With their support and belief in me, I knew I would be successful and could always use them as resources if needed in the future.”

Now, two decades into his career, Urlacher offers similar encouragement to today’s education students.

“Get out into the schools as much as possible. See education from a variety of sources and experiences,” he said. “Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and focus on the change you can make in the world. Study abroad. No matter what your subject area is — you will not regret it.”

Urlacher remains grateful for the preparation and mentorship that shaped his path.

“I am very thankful to NDSU for preparing me for a wonderful and satisfying career in education,” he said.

Urlacher also credits Fargo Public Schools, particularly Discovery Middles School for providing a place to grow and serve.

“It is my home, and the people I work with are truly my family,” he said.