Erica Alstad

Erica Alstad is a former school principal, born and raised in North Dakota.  She grew up with a love for the lake life, dogs, all things Christmas, and a strong connection with her grandparents.  Erica began her time in college as a percussionist music major and a math minor, then the pull toward teaching changed her path, and she graduated from the University of North Dakota with a degree in Elementary Education.  After student teaching in a northern suburb of Minneapolis, she began her teaching career in Arlington, Texas. She served as a first-grade teacher, a lead teacher for her school and grade level, and then a fifth-grade teacher.  A move to Green Bay, Wisconsin brought a part-time role as a financial consultant and full-time role as a mom.  Once back in North Dakota, Erica pursued her master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Mary in Bismarck while substitute teaching and raising her two daughters.

Erica began her time in administration as an Elementary School principal, serving students from pre-k to sixth grade.  Her strong focus on promoting social-emotional wellness among all stakeholders was evident through her collaboration with the community health foundation and partnership with the founder of Bar 33 Leadership to develop and implement a social-emotional curriculum for students and staff.  To broaden her experience into secondary education, she then took a role as the k-12 principal in a small town, furthering her passion for excellent teaching and learning at all ages.  Another role as a high school principal closer to home followed.  Transitioning to a new challenge, Erica welcomed change with a new career as a realtor, a new marriage to an elementary principal, and the honor of working with the CP2R framework within education.

Throughout her career, Erica consistently championed a holistic approach to education, emphasizing the importance of social-emotional teaching and personal growth for all stakeholders.  She believes that positive change and a desire for improvement is a necessity for anyone in the business of teaching and learning.  Among her accomplishments is The ND Bell Ringer award (2020) recognizing the positive contributions she made to education and being nominated for the Rookie of the Year (2023) by the Minot Board of Realtors.  Erica shows passion and drive in all she does, working to serve others in whatever way she can.

Beyond her professional achievements, Erica is deeply involved in the Minot community, actively participating in the Rotary Club of Minot, serving as the Public Relations Chair for the Minot Board of Realtors, and supporting local businesses and church activities.  When she isn’t working, Erica loves quality time with her family and embraces an active lifestyle.  She enjoys playing piano, walking her springer spaniels, and traveling.