Irondale High School

Can a high school be more than just bricks and mortar? At Irondale High School, the answer is a resounding yes. Irondale High School isn’t just a place for learning; it’s a launchpad for dreams. Established in 1967, Irondale High School is nestled in New Brighton, Minnesota, about ten miles north of the twin cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. This school, part of the Mounds View Public Schools district, is more than a building; it’s a vibrant hub of activity and achievement. Irondale High School made history in the 2012-2013 school year with its innovative Early College program. This program, a partnership with Anoka-Ramsey Community College, allows students to earn both a high school diploma and an associate’s degree in just four years. This groundbreaking program even caught the attention of US Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, who visited Irondale and praised Minnesota’s commitment to advanced education. Irondale High School’s commitment to academics is clear. U.S. News & World Report ranked it among the best high schools in the nation in 2024. Newsweek also recognized Irondale in 2010 for its challenging curriculum, including AP, IB, and Cambridge tests, placing it in the top 5% of high schools nationwide. But Irondale High School is more than just academics. The school boasts an impressive array of extracurricular activities, from sports like football, hockey, and basketball to clubs like robotics, band, choir, and even a hackysack club. The Irondale Knights robotics team, known as the KnightKrawlers, even made it to the finals of the FIRST Robotics Competition in 2016. The school’s marching band also stands out, having secured the first Minnesota state championship at the 2005 Youth in Music Band Championships and winning the Minnesota Class AAA state champion title again in 2024. The Irondale High School winter drumline is a force to be reckoned with, holding multiple state championship titles and even earning a gold medal at the WGI World Championships in 2023. Irondale High School’s influence extends beyond its walls. Notable alumni include Lisa Bender, a Minneapolis politician, Scott Bjugstad, a former Olympic and NHL hockey player, and members of the band Information Society. The legacy of Irondale High School is one of achievement, innovation, and community. It’s a place where students are challenged to excel, explore their passions, and prepare for a bright future. So, as you stand before Irondale High School, remember that you’re not just looking at a building. You’re looking at a testament to the power of education, the importance of community, and the potential that resides within every student who walks through its doors.