Principal Kirsten Hanson of Ben Franklin Middle School (Photo provided by North Dakota Newspaper Association)
Earlier this week, the North Dakota Association of Secondary School Principals (NDASSP), in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), named Kirsten Hanson, principal of Ben Franklin Middle School in Fargo Public Schools, as the 2026 North Dakota Middle Level Principal of the Year.
This award recognizes Hanson’s student-centered leadership, commitment to strong school culture, and belief that the best schools are built through relationships, clarity of purpose, and a shared dedication to doing what is best for students.
According to the press release, Hanson is currently in her fourth year as principal of Ben Franklin Middle School and her 14th year in education. She earned her undergraduate degree from Black Hills State University and her master’s degree in K–12 Educational Administration from South Dakota State University.
She began her career teaching middle school social studies on the Pine Ridge and Rosebud Indian Reservations, experiences that shaped her belief in the power of high expectations, strong systems, and meaningful connections. She later taught and coached in Winner, South Dakota, and served as assistant principal at Rapid Valley Elementary in Rapid City, where she helped strengthen MTSS supports and social-emotional practices for students. In spring 2022, Hanson accepted the opportunity to lead Ben Franklin Middle School, working with staff and students to build a shared vision rooted in belonging, alignment, and student success.
“This honor belongs to the students and staff of Ben Franklin Middle School,” Hanson said. “Every day, they show what’s possible when people feel connected, supported, and accountable to one another.” Under her leadership, Ben Franklin has focused on strengthening culture, clarifying expectations, and building systems that support both learning and behavior while fostering staff belonging and shared leadership.
Hanson lives in Fargo with her husband, Jon, and their daughter, Rorie. Originally from Martin, South Dakota, she credits her family roots and strong work ethic with guiding her leadership. As North Dakota’s honoree, Hanson will represent the state in the national NASSP Principal of the Year selection process.
For more information about NASSP’s National Principal of the Year program, visit www.nassp.org.
