In the heart of Grand Forks, a beacon of inspiration and creativity is being
honored. Dean Opp, a retired teacher, the visionary co-founder of the Summer Performing Arts (SPA) group and an integral leader for the project to build the Grand Forks Children's Museum, is being inducted into the Grand Forks Public Schools and Grand Forks Foundation for Education’s Teachers Hall of Fame. This recognition is a testament to his unwavering dedication to education and his profound impact on the community.
Dean’s journey in education began in the classroom, where he quickly became known for his innovative teaching methods and his ability to inspire students. Dean taught speech and theater classes for over 35 years at the Red River High School in Grand Forks. While teaching full time, his passion for the arts led Dean to serve as a co-founder of the Summer Performing Arts (SPA) group. SPA has since become a cornerstone of the community, providing countless students with the opportunity to explore their talents in music, theater, production and dance. Under Dean’s leadership, SPA has not only nurtured young artists but also fostered a sense of community and collaboration.
Dean’s creativity didn’t stop with SPA. He is also the primary mastermind behind the engaging and educational exhibits at the Grand Forks Children’s Museum’s pop-up event called Full STEAM AHEAD as well as a consultant on the permanent exhibits to be featured at the museum. His vision for the museum is to create a space where children can learn through play, sparking curiosity and imagination. The exhibits he helps design are not only interactive and fun but also educational, covering a wide range of topics from science and technology to art and history.
Dean’s contributions to education and the arts have left an indelible and lasting impact on Grand Forks. His work with SPA and the Children’s Museum has enriched the lives of countless children and families, fostering a love for learning, self-expression, and creativity. As he is inducted into the Grand Forks Teachers Hall of Fame, the community celebrates not just his achievements, but the lasting legacy he has created.
Many who have worked with Dean speak of his boundless energy and his ability to see potential in every student.
One former student shared, “Mr. Opp always encouraged us to think outside the box and to believe in our abilities. He made learning an adventure, a fun adventure.”
A former school colleague remarked, “Dean’s passion for education and the arts is infectious. He has a unique ability to bring people together and create something truly special.”
Dean’s wife of 32 years, Mary commented “Dean was an amazing high school teacher! Among the many, many things he did extremely well, I believe his strongest talent was finding a ‘home’ for students who needed one, whether that was on stage, or doing technology, costumes, lighting, or whatever would make them feel most comfortable! Dean also gave many students the invaluable opportunity to visit New York City to see several Broadway shows, tour the city and meet up with alums! Dean is also a great Dad to our kids, Lukas and Hannah, and an amazing Bupa to our grandchildren, Madilyn and Oliver!”
Dean has been one of the ‘founding father’ of the Grand Forks Children’s Museum project. He continues to work tirelessly to support the capital campaign and lends his genius to the Full STEAM Ahead, the museum’s annual community outreach project. Dean also serves on the building, community engagement and exhibit committees for the museum.
Katie Mayer, the museum’s Executive Director stated, “In every project and on every committee, Dean’s creative vision and relentless hard work shine through. His leadership is not just about guiding others, but about empowering them to reach their full potential. Dean’s enthusiasm is contagious, inspiring everyone around him to contribute their best efforts and fostering a spirit of collaboration and community. We are excited to see Dean recognized for his role as an educator in Grand Forks and look forward to continue to work with him as we build this museum.”
As Dean takes his place in the Hall of Fame, his story serves as a reminder of the power of creativity and the importance of nurturing the next generation. His legacy will continue to inspire educators, students, and community members for years to come.
Today we celebrate Dean’s incredible achievements and his induction into the Grand Forks Teachers Hall of Fame. Congratulations, Dean, on this well-deserved honor. Your dedication and passion have made Grand Forks a brighter, more creative place. Here’s to many more years of inspiring and educating!
By Sally Miskavige, Grand Forks Children's Museum Board of Directors Vice President
About the Grand Forks Teacher Hall of Fame:
From the Grand Forks Public School website, “The Grand Forks Teachers Hall of Fame was created in 1995 by the Grand Forks Foundation for Education and Alumni Network as a means to publicly thank and recognize outstanding and memorable retired educators who have made an impact on students. The Hall of Fame also is a means to honor the teaching profession as a whole for its vital role in shaping the future of individuals and society. To be eligible for the Teachers Hall of Fame, teachers must have been retired from Grand Forks Public Schools for at least one year; they may have been former elementary or secondary classroom teachers, administrators, counselors, or librarians.”1
1.Grand Forks Public School website, no author listed: https://www.gfschools.org/departments/alumni-network/teachers-hall-of-fame
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