North Dakota Constitution Article VIII - Education
North Dakota Constitution – Article VIII: Education – Summary
Article VIII of the North Dakota Constitution outlines the state’s responsibility for education, the structure of the public education system, and the management of educational funds and institutions. Here are the key points:
1. Duty of the State
The legislative assembly is directed to provide a system of public schools.
The goal is to offer free, fair, and efficient education for all children in North Dakota.
2. Public School System
Must include elementary and secondary schools that are free to all children of the state.
Schools must be uniform in character, maintained under general supervision of the state.
3. State Board of Higher Education
Oversees the public colleges and universities.
Members are appointed and must have qualifications as prescribed by law.
Has full authority over:
Organization and control of state higher education institutions.
Budget preparation for higher education.
Management of buildings and land.
4. Common Schools and Permanent Trust Fund
Lands and funds set aside for public schools form the Common School Permanent Trust Fund.
Income from this trust is used only for education and cannot be diverted to other purposes.
The fund must be prudently invested, with an emphasis on preserving principal and generating reasonable income.
5. University and School Lands
Lands granted by the federal government to the state for educational purposes are held in trust.
Revenue from these lands supports public schools and higher education institutions.
6. Restrictions on Use of Educational Funds
No sectarian instruction (i.e., religious instruction favoring a specific denomination) is allowed in public schools or universities.
Public funds cannot be used to support religious schools or institutions.
7. Higher Education Institutions
The state maintains specific institutions, including:
University of North Dakota (Grand Forks)
North Dakota State University (Fargo)
Other colleges and special schools as designated by law.
8. Tuition and Fees
Tuition for residents at state universities may be regulated or reduced, especially for those in need or veterans.
9. Superintendent of Public Instruction
An elected official responsible for the general supervision of public education.
Works in conjunction with the legislature and the State Board of Public School Education.
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