Michelle Bertsch, a mathematics teacher at Fargo North High School in Fargo, ND, has been teaching for 15 years. She has worked in the Fargo School District #1 for 11 years as a mathematics and physical education teacher, and she serves as advisor to the school’s student council. She currently teaches advanced mathematics and algebra II.
Visitors to Ms. Bertsch’s classroom notice the variety of activities in which she engages her students, from calculating the probability of games to using graphic calculators and interactive whiteboards. She seamlessly integrates technology in her classroom in meaningful ways. Her in-depth knowledge helps her make real-life connections so that students can understand and apply mathematics concepts.
Ms. Bertsch is genuine, enthusiastic, and thoughtful. She has a passion for math and her excitement is contagious. Students praise Ms. Bertsch as someone they trust and can turn to if they have a problem with school or anything else.
Ms. Bertsch wrote grant applications for an interactive whiteboard and PRS system and creates innovative lesson plans that she shares with fellow teachers. She handles on-call technology support for teachers on the electronic gradebook and attendance system.
Ms. Bertsch won the Fargo North High School Teacher of the Year Award in 2001 and was nominated for the YWCA Woman of the Year in 2003.
Ms. Bertsch is certified to teach grades seven through twelve mathematics and physical education. She has a B.S. in secondary education and an M.A. in teaching, mathematics from Minot State University.