The three appointments were Matthew Ruhland as Athletics and Activities director; Stephen Young as Career and Technical Education (CTE) director; and Travis Smith as assistant principal at Minot North High School. Board member Scott Louser said he couldn’t be more impressed with the interview process and quality of candidates for all three selection committees.

“I did a lot of research across the state before we went into this interview process, and I had a concern, ‘how were we going to find somebody?’ I came out of that process wondering how we were going to choose somebody. I really have to thank Dr. (Scott) Faul for how he set everything up,” Louser said.

Ruhland has served as the site activities coordinator for MPS since 2024, in addition to other roles as technology and engineering teacher, Technology Student Association adviser and assistant football coach at Minot High School. Ruhland holds a master’s degree in kinesiology and sport management from the University of Minnesota.

Ruhland will oversee the district’s athletics and activities, which serve students across MPS. This includes all middle and high school athletics and activities, supporting coaches and advisers, ensuring compliance with state and regional regulations, and promoting opportunities that enhance student engagement and achievement beyond the classroom.

Stephen Young

“We are excited to have Matthew serve as our next director of Athletics and Activities,” Superintendent Scott Faul said. “He has demonstrated a strong commitment to our students, staff and community. Matthew’s leadership, experience and understanding of our school district make him well prepared to guide our athletics and activities programs into the future.”

Young has served as principal of Memorial Middle School on Minot Air Force Base since 2019. Young will oversee the CTE programs at MPS, working to expand opportunities for students to develop real-world skills, explore career pathways and prepare for success after graduation.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving our district in this new position,” Young said. “Our CTE programs play a vital role in helping students explore their interests, develop skills and connect their learning to future careers. I’m excited to work with our students, staff and community partners to continue expanding these opportunities for our students.”

Smith has served as assistant principal in the district for 10 years and currently works at Minot North. Smith received a doctorate degree in school leadership from the University of North Dakota. He has been with Minot Public Schools for 21 years, serving as a secondary educator for 11 years before moving into his current role as assistant principal.

“Dr. Smith has demonstrated strong leadership and a deep commitment to the students and staff at Minot North,” Faul said. “His experience, professionalism and dedication to student success make him well suited for this expanded role. We are pleased he will continue serving the Minot North community in this capacity.”

Matthew Ruhland