Dr. Jess Cabak Named New Two Rivers High School Principal

Dr. Jess Cabak has been selected as the new Principal of Two Rivers High School. Currently serving as the Associate Principal at the school, Dr. Cabak will step into her new leadership role on July 1, 2025.

At the March 17 School District 197 School Board meeting, Dr. Jess Cabak was hired as the new Two Rivers High School principal, starting July 1, 2025. Dr. Cabak has served as an Associate Principal of Two Rivers for the past four years and will step into the principal role following Dr. Johnson’s departure at the end of the school year. 

“Dr. Cabak has the experience, skills, heart, and vision to keep Two Rivers moving in a positive direction,” shared Assistant Superintendent Peter Mau. “She is a strategic thinker and strong communicator who values relationships, listens to diverse perspectives, and builds consensus. She is a caring, equity-focused leader dedicated to the growth and development of every student.”

Before joining Two Rivers, Dr. Cabak spent 13 years in the North St. Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale School District as a teacher, instructional coach, and dean of students. She has extensive experience leading AVID, overseeing district curriculum improvements, and supporting professional development for educators. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and has served as an adjunct instructor in mathematics at Bethel University.

“I’m incredibly honored to be named the next principal of Two Rivers High School,” shared Dr. Cabak. “In the past four years, we’ve seen amazing growth, achievements, and a strong community. Our students have more voice, a greater sense of belonging, and more opportunities to grow into their best selves. I want to continue building on that momentum—ensuring every student is supported, encouraged, and has multiple pathways to success.” 

As she steps into this role, Dr. Cabak will focus on sustaining Two Rivers High School’s positive momentum and continuing to build strong relationships with the school community. Please help us congratulate Dr. Cabak and welcome her as the next principal of Two Rivers High School! 

Next Steps
The Associate Principal position will be posted internally and externally tomorrow, March 18. 

Want to Know More About Dr. Cabak? Here Are a Few Fun Facts:

• Dr. Cabak was Dr. Johnson's first hire at Two Rivers High School.
• One of Dr. Cabak’s favorite parts of the day is greeting students and staff in the morning.
• Dr. Cabak was instrumental in creating the eighth-grade transition day, where eighth grade students spend the day at Two Rivers to learn all about high school life. 
• In her free time, she enjoys working out, hiking, and spending time outdoors around the Great Lakes area. She plans on running the Twin Cities 10-miler this fall!
• Dr. Cabak is passionate about serving her community through education. She’s dedicated to supporting students and staff, and creating a school environment where everyone feels supported and excited to show up every day as a Warrior.
• Dr. Cabak grew up in Apple Valley, lives in St. Paul, and worked in the North St. Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale School District before becoming a Warrior, so she’s never been too far from Two Rivers.