Chris Forrest to serve as assistant superintendent for elementary schools

Chris Forrest has been named assistant superintendent of elementary schools for the Anoka-Hennepin School District, effective July 1, 2026. 

Forrest is an experienced Anoka-Hennepin educator with leadership roles and classroom experience across the District during his 22 years of service. He has served as principal of Wilson Elementary in Anoka for the past 11 years, following two years as an administrative intern at Jefferson Elementary in Blaine. Prior to his administrative leadership, Forrest served for nine years as a classroom teacher at Andover Elementary, following his time as a student teacher at Oxbow Creek Elementary in Brooklyn Park. 

His leadership in Anoka-Hennepin was recognized professionally with his selection as the 2021 Leadership Achievement Award for the North Suburban Division of the Minnesota Elementary School Principals’ Association (MESPA). 

Forrest holds his undergraduate degree in elementary education, Master’s degree and K-12 Principal license from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and his superintendent license from St. Mary’s University. 

The assistant superintendent position was led on an interim basis for the 2025-26 school year by Dr. Jinger Gustafson. In this role, Forrest will oversee the 25 elementary schools in the District, serve on the district leadership team, and report directly to the superintendent.