Garfield Re-2 names Michael Mikalakis as principal of Coal Ridge High School

Garfield Re-2 School District is pleased to announce that longtime Coal Ridge High School educator and assistant principal Michael Mikalakis has been selected to serve as the school’s next principal, effective July 1, 2026, pending Board of Education approval. Mikalakis will take the reins from outgoing principal Jackie Davis, who is retiring at the end of the 25-26 school year.

Mikalakis will become just the fifth principal in Coal Ridge High School’s history, a responsibility he does not take lightly.

“I felt like it was the right thing to do to serve the staff, students, and community at this time,” he said. “I’ve been part of Garfield Re-2 and Coal Ridge High School for a long time. I wanted to make sure we continue the positive work that’s been happening and build on it.”

Mikalakis brings nearly two decades of experience in Garfield Re-2, beginning as a special education paraprofessional and fourth-grade teacher at Kathryn Senor Elementary before transitioning to Coal Ridge High School as an English Language Arts teacher. Since 2017, he has served as assistant principal, leading instructional coaching, staff evaluations, and professional learning communities focused on improving classroom practice.

As he looks ahead, Mikalakis is focused on building on Coal Ridge’s strong foundation while expanding opportunities for students and deepening connections with the community.

“My number one goal is to continue the academic excellence we have by supporting our teachers and helping them be their best in the classroom,” he said. “At the same time, we need to do a better job of opening our doors, helping our community see what’s happening inside our school and the opportunities our students have.”

He also emphasized the importance of growing career-connected learning opportunities, including expanding Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways and strengthening partnerships that prepare students for both college and the workforce.

Mikalakis’ path to leadership reflects his long-standing commitment to the district. He began his career in Garfield Re-2 nearly 20 years ago as a paraprofessional before moving into the classroom and later into administration.

“I didn’t expect this journey when I started,” he said. “But I truly believe this is the right step for this time and for this community.”

Garfield Re-2 Superintendent Kirk Banghart highlighted Mikalakis’ deep roots and instructional leadership as key strengths.

“Mik understands Coal Ridge High School at its core: its people, its traditions, and its potential,” Banghart said. “His commitment to students, his focus on strong instruction, and his belief in continuous growth will serve the Coal Ridge community well. We are excited for the future under his leadership.”