Tomi Cimarosti takes helm as BPS Indigenous Education Director, continuing legacy of advocacy

BPS appoints experienced educator to lead Indigenous education initiatives

Bismarck Public Schools introduced Tomi Cimarosti as the new Indigenous Education Director on May 13.

Cimarosti has worked at BPS for three years as a prevention and relationship education program, PREP, facilitator, behavioral specialist, and family engagement liaison. She is a Minot State University graduate with more than two decades of experience working with youth, families and various local agencies in North Dakota.

“I hail from the Standing Rock Dakota/Lakota Oyate of the Iháŋktȟuŋwaŋna Yanktonai, and am eager to engage in the essential work ahead,” Cimarosti said in the press release. “Collaborating with the remarkable BPS community comprised of staff, teachers, students, families and the wider community, I am enthusiastic about enhancing the existing Indigenous student programs. My focus lies in imparting the significance of Indigenous teachings, history, culture and progress towards educational equity, fostering a thriving environment for every learner.”

According to the U.S. News & World Report, American Indians make up 7.4% of the district’s nearly 14,000 student population. Altogether, the district currently has over 1,600 Indigenous students enrolled. Bismarck Public School District 1 covers 27 schools and is the largest district in the state.

Sashay Schettler, the outgoing BPS Indigenous Education Director, said she is excited for Cimarosti to take over the position. In a drafted letter to Cimarosti, she welcomed the new director to the team.

Schettler, a Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation citizen, noted the importance for Cimarosti to build relationships with students, families, district leaders and those within the Indigenous Education Department.

“Listening and learning from the Indigenous community has been invaluable to me,” wrote Schettler in the letter. “Their perspective, experiences and needs have shaped our initiatives and programs.” She also encouraged Cimarosti to remain connected with Bismarck’s Indigenous communities and keep them in the loop about curriculum development.

“My focus lies in imparting the significance of Indigenous teachings, history, culture and progress towards educational equity, fostering a thriving environment for every learner.”

Tomi Cimarosti- Indigenous Education Director

“Cultural responsiveness is at the heart of what we do,” wrote Schettler. “Ensure that all our efforts –– from curriculum development to program planning –– are rooted in cultural relevance and respect. Collaborate widely with the Office of Indian/Multicultural Education, tribal education departments and community organizations to maximize our impacts.”

Schettler, who was hired as the district’s first Indigenous education director, has held the position since 2021. She will begin her new role as assistant director for the Office of Indian and Multicultural Education at the Department of Public Instruction on June 3.

Though she’s saddened to leave the district, Schettler said she has no doubt that Cimarosti will become an invaluable asset to the Indigenous Education Department at BPS. According to BPS, Cimarosti will begin working in her new role this summer.

“I am confident that you will bring passion, dedication and fresh perspectives to this role,” wrote Schettler. “The work we do is incredibly important, and I know you will make a significant impact on the lives of Indigenous students and their families.”

Sourcing & Methodology Statement:

Bismarck 1. U.S. News and World Report. (n.d.). https://www.usnews.com/education/k12/north-dakota/districts/bismarck-1-110180

Dateline:

BISMARCK, N.D.