DLPS Teacher of the Year: Kristi Bommersbach; DLPS Support Staff of the Year: Lisa Gathman
DLPS Teacher of the Year: Kristi Bommersbach
The Devils Lake Public School District is proud to announce the selection of Miss Kristi Bommersbach, science teacher at Central Middle School, as the DLPS Teacher of the Year.
Kristi earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from the University of North Dakota in 1995. She worked as a paralegal for everal years in Washington DC and Grand Forks before returning to school to follow her passion for teaching. In December 2006, she earned her elementary education degree from Mayville State University. The following month, she geban her teaching career as a 4th grade teacher at Prairie View Elementary School. After 13 years at Prairie View, Miss Bommersbach transitioned to Central Middle School as a science teacher. There, she teaches at White Horse Hill, a unique learning environment that integrates curriculum with the outdoors to create an immersive, hands-on experience. In addition to this role, she teaches 7th and 8th grade science, sharing her deep knowledge and enthusiasm for the subject.
Kristi Bommersbach is a phenomenal educator and an inspiring colleage. She brings enthusiasm, dedication adn passion to her classroom ev ery day, fostering genuine excitement for learning. She provides structure while maintaining the flexibility needed for students to explore their creativity and curiosity. A truly impactful teacher, Miss Bommersbach connects with each student, ensuring they feel seen and supported. She incorporates project-based learning with engaging, hand-on lessons that leave a lasting impression. When tasked with developing new eective courses for Cnetral Middle School, she rose to the challenge with creativity and purpose, designing Native American Myths and Legends and Communications — both of which equip students with valuable knowledge and essential life skills. Miss Bommersbach’s dedication extends far beyond the classroom. She served on the Project Exceed research cohort through UND and attended the Ron Clark Academy for professional training. She embodies the qualities of an exceptional educator – one who not only teaches but inspires.
Kristi’s family includes her parents, Ron and Carol, her brother Ryan, sister-in-law Erin, and her beloved nephews, Brady and Mark. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, being outdoors, photography and scrapbooking.
With her selection as Teacher of the Year for the Devils LAke Public School District, Miss Bommersbach is eligible for consideration for the 2026 North Dakota Teacher of the Year award which will be selected in September 2025 by a state selection committee in Bismarck.
The Devils Lake Public School Teacher of the Year Program is sponsored by First United Bank, the Devils Lake High School Student Council, and the Devils Lake Public School District. For her selection as Teacher of the Year, First United Bank has awarded Miss Bommersbach with a $1,500 stipend to be used for enrollment and participation in a professional workshop or convention, and $250 in Chamber Bucks from Devils Lake Public Schools.
Mrs. Lisa Gathman, administrative assistant at Devils Lake High School, is the DLPS Support Staff of the Year
The Devils Lake Public School District is proud to announce the selection of Mrs. Lisa Gathman, administrative assistant at Devils Lake High School, as the DLPS Support Staff of the Year.
Lisa Gathman holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting and business administration from Minot State University. With extensive experience working with children, as a coach, childcare provider, paraprofessional and mother of six, she combines her business expertise with a strong commitment to nurturing and supporting children’s growth and well-being.
Lisa Gathman is the quiet calm that holds Devils Lake High School together. As the first voice for Devils Lake High School, she is exactly who we want to represent the high school. She is the welcoming face to all who enter the office, the kind, calm voice on the phone, a confidante, a problem solver and often labeled as the school mom. Lisa is passionate about helping others. She shows empathy and compassion while also providing tough motherly love if needed. She knows the students and motivates them to always do their best. Lisa does everything asked of her and more and can be counted on in any situation. She never complains, tackles every task and works tirelessly. Whatever is needed, she simply jumps in and takes care of what needs to be done. Lisa is trusted by students and staff and handles difficult situations in a subtle manner while maintaining the appropriate confidentiality. As a respected employee for over 20 years, Lisa has managed and overseen the care of the high school office and assists others in her position across the district.
Lisa is married to Kevin, and together they are proud parents of six children: Derek (Megan), Alyssa (Josh), Andrea (Tyler), Devin, Alexa (Jake) and Amber. They are also blessed with ten wonderful grandchildren. In her free time, Lisa enjoys spending time with her family, gardening, biking, and playing golf.
The Devils Lake Public School Support Staff of the Year Program is sponsored by First United Bank, the Devils Lake High School Student Council and the Devills Lake Public School District. For her slection as Support Staff of the Year, First United Bank has awarded Mrs. Gathman with $500 in Chamber Bucks and $250 in Chamber Bucks from Devils Lake Public Schools.
