meet the principal

Welcome to the 2022-2023 school year! The start of the school year marks my 24th year serving the state of Minnesota as a principal, and my eighth year at East Ridge High School.  I was born and raised in Hibbing Minnesota on the "Iron Range" and graduated in 1986.  My passion to work in the school setting came at a young age as I had many teachers and coaches that supported me and helped me form a vision for my future.  My education includes a Bachelor's degree in teaching and a minor in coaching from St. Cloud State University, a Master's of Arts in Educational Technology from the University of St. Thomas, an Education Specialist degree in school administration from the University of St. Thomas, and a superintendent license from Saint Mary's University.  

This year is very special to me as we have utilized the past year framing a vision for the future at East Ridge High School.  The school was constructed and has been in operation since 2009 with a foundation/pillars that have guided our work since the school's inception.  The foundation has been preserved as we build our future, and we conceptualize our continued work as the addition of the rafter's, the roof and the shingles, representing our new vision of "One East Ridge".  Our foundational pillars are Academics, Activities, Equity, and Relationships.  The vision now includes the importance of individuality and community as we strive to prepare our student's for life after high school.  Welcome to the 22-23 school year, please do not hesitate to reach out if I can assist you in any way.  I am honored to serve as the principal of East Ridge High School.

Jim Smokrovich, Principal

East Ridge High School, home of the Raptors is proud to serve over 2000 students in grades 9-12. East Ridge High supports the core values of building character, assuming responsibility within our community, critical thinking, and allowing everyone in our school to “Be Seen, Be Heard, Be Bold”.JAmes Smokrovich