Jeff Thompson to serve as chief operations officer

Jeff Thompson has been named chief operations officer for the Anoka-Hennepin School District, effective July 1, 2026.

Thompson is an experienced educator and leader with Anoka-Hennepin, including 24 years of service. He has served as an assistant principal and activities director at Coon Rapids High School since 2022. Thompson began working as an administrator in the district in 2016 when he was named an assistant principal at Anoka Middle School for the Arts-Washington Campus,  a position he held for six years. 

He began teaching in the district in 2002 at Andover High School, where he taught AP Psychology and social studies classes while also serving as the school’s Link Crew leader. From 2002-2013, Thompson also served as the head wrestling coach at Andover High School. 

Thompson earned a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Concordia University, St. Paul, where he also earned his Educational Specialist principal licensure.

The chief operations officer position became available when Greg Cole was named Superintendent of Anoka-Hennepin Schools on May 13, 2026. In this role, Thompson will oversee district operations for buildings and grounds, child nutrition, transportation, community education, technology, and safety and security functions.