About Us

Principal's Welcome

My name is Norman Bell, and I am the proud principal of Cooper High School. I have worked in education for the past 15 years across a variety of roles, including the last seven years in school administration as an elementary school Assistant Principal, a Middle School Assistant Principal, and a High School Principal.

My educational background includes an Associate's degree from North Dakota State College of Science, a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Communications from Arkansas Tech University, a Master's degree in School Counseling from the University of Wisconsin–River Falls, and a Specialist degree (Principal License) from Minnesota State University, Mankato. I am also in the process of completing my Superintendent License and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Hamline University.

Through all of this experience and education, one thing has remained constant: my why. I believe every student can achieve academic excellence. I believe in the power of relationships, and in building a culture rooted in positivity, high expectations, and high support.

What I can promise you is this: transparent communication, genuine partnership, and consistent collaboration. I will make it a priority to regularly share our school's happenings, celebrate what our students are accomplishing, and keep our community informed of upcoming events and opportunities for parent voice.

I am also deeply committed to ensuring every student graduates well-prepared for life after high school, whether that means pursuing college, entering the workforce, joining the military, or exploring any other postsecondary path. Our goal is to make sure every student leaves Cooper with a clear pathway toward their career goals and the skills to be productive, engaged citizens in their communities.

I am a leader who believes every student can achieve academic excellence, and that it is on us, as adults, to create the conditions in which students feel heard, respected, and cared for. Cooper is fortunate to have a staff that is deeply committed, relationship-centered, and highly engaged with every student who walks through our doors. Their dedication to knowing our students not just as learners, but as people is what makes this school community truly special.

I am beyond excited for this journey together, and I look forward to partnering with each of you this year and beyond.

GO HAWKS!

Norman Bell 
Principal
Cooper High School

About Cooper High School

At Cooper High School we strive to live by what it means to be a HAWK in everything we do, including academics, activities and athletics. 

H - Honesty
A - Accountability
W - Work Ethic
K - Kindness

Our robust academic, athletic and activity programs allow our students to be a part of something special at Cooper. 
 
Cooper serves about 1,600 students in grades 9-12.  We offer a comprehensive curriculum of 150+ courses that includes Advanced Placement, as well as the ability to earn college credit in Articulated Skilled Trades in Culinary Arts and Business. Cooper also hosts the pathway to the Spanish Immersion Program where students can work to earn a bilingual diploma seal. 
 
We have something for everyone when it comes to activities, athletics and clubs. Cooper has a strong Fine Arts program including band, choir, orchestra and theater. We also have competitive athletic teams that are continually recognized in conference, sectional and state. We have over 50 clubs or organizations that students can join, and many join multiple clubs.

Our goal at Cooper is for all students to have a sense of belonging, find their passion and know they are valued. And we do it the Cooper way. Team Cooper, Family Strong.

Cooper is a Full Service Community School

A full service community school (FSCS) builds partnerships and organizes resources to help students and families thrive. Fullservice community schools focus on academics, health, social services, youth development, and engagement — all to improve student learning and strengthen families.

Cooper, a FSCS, is a resource center open to everyone, with extended evening and weekend hours.

Our mission is to build a stronger, braver support system for our students and families within the neighborhoods our schools serve. We cannot do this alone: we need your voice. If you have a need and/or questions, ideas, or suggested partnerships, please connect with us.