West Fargo, ND – (June 15, 2022) – West Fargo High School educators Teresa Black Cloud and Jake Snyder were recognized at the Governor’s Innovative Education Summit last week as the recipients of the Collaborative Culture Award, which is part of the #InnovativeND award program.

Black Cloud and Snyder were nominated for their work in leading restorative practices efforts at West Fargo High School, which included leading professional development, facilitating proactive circles in classrooms, and working closely with students through restorative mediations to resolve peer-to-peer conflict. As stated in their nomination, their efforts during the 2021-22 school year have empowered students and their families to resolve conflict through restorative practices.

“Jake and Teresa’s work as Restorative Practice Leads exemplifies the spirit of the Collaborative Culture Award and is an excellent example of how modern conceptions of how to address behavior interventions can have a positive impact on students, families, and communities,” stated Danelle Hopkins, Research & Projects Manager and Policy Advisor for the Office of the Governor. “It was a pleasure to recognize some of the great work happening at WFPS.”   

The #InnovativeND Awards celebrate exceptional educators around the state who embrace and implement innovative practices in classrooms, buildings, and districts. The Collaborative Culture Award specifically recognizes efforts that reach across subjects and classrooms.