BISMARCK, N.D. ( North Dakota Monitor ) — North Dakota won’t see any charter schools open this year, but state education officials are busy behind the scenes laying the groundwork for next year.

Lawmakers passed Senate Bill 2241 during the 2025 session that authorized public charter schools in North Dakota, leaving South Dakota, Nebraska and Vermont as the only states without a public charter school law.

Supporters of charter schools said they will give families more options and may be able to cater to different learning styles or interests. Bill sponsor Sen. Michelle Axtman, R-Bismarck, gave examples during the legislative session of charter schools around the country specializing in health care or building trades, dual language or STEM-education models.

“It expands education opportu

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