Meet the Administration Team

Michael Zeman has been named the new principal at Elk River High School, starting the 2024-2025 School Year.

Mike has served as principal of VandenBerge Middle School since 2022. Prior to that, he was an Assistant Principal at Rogers High School, joining the administrative team there in 2014. Mike also served the District from 2008-2014 as an English teacher and AVID coordinator, demonstrating his dedication to education and his extensive background in both administrative and teaching roles within ISD 728.

Elise Bengston was appointed Assistant Principal at Elk River High School at the beginning of the 2022-2023 school year.

Previously, she taught Biology and Chemistry courses at secondary levels and was a curriculum integration coordinator working with CTE programming in the Osseo Area School District.

She received her bachelor's degree in Biology and Education from Hamline University, a Masters degree from St. Mary's University MN, and an Education Specialist Degree from Concordia University. 

Ms. Bengtson states, "Education is human-centered work and it is my greatest goal to nurture and support our young people to thrive in their brilliance."

Julie Odegard graduated from St. Olaf College with a degree in Psychology. She then decided that she wanted to pursue a career in education so she went back to school and got her teaching license and masters at the University of St. Thomas.

She taught in the Anoka-Hennepin School District for 11 years at both the middle and high school level, after which she completed her administrative license. She worked in an administrative internship at Champlin Park High School for 2 years and then worked with teams of teachers as a Professional Learning Communities Coordinator for the next year. It was at that time that Mrs. Odegard made the move to Elk River High School.

Bio Coming Soon!

Mike Cunningham was appointed as Elk River High School Activities Director beginning with the 2011-2012 school year.

He has served as a teacher and a coach in Omaha (NE) and in the Fridley school districts. He also served as an administrator in North Branch and Spring Lake Park school districts.

He received his B.S. in Industrial Studies (Education) from St. Cloud State University, his M.Ed. from Saint May’s University, and his Ed.S. from the University of St. Thomas.

Mr. Cunningham is passionate about involvement and excellence in the areas of athletics and activities and is committed to providing students with a rigorous education. Remember, “It’s Good to be an Elk!”