Minot Public Schools announce new principal, assistant principal
- James Swegarden
- Brian Aufforth

James Swegarden
Minot Public Schools has announced the hiring of James Swegarden and Brian Aufforth to serve as the principal of McKinley Alternative Learning Center and 10-month assistant principal at Minot North High School, respectively.
Swegarden currently serves at the McKinley Alternative Learning Center as a homebound teacher. keeping homebound students connected to educational opportunities. He was formerly the junior high and high school principal, as well as activities director, at Glenburn Public School.
As principal, Swegarden will support the center’s staff as he oversees daily operations.
“I am honored for the opportunity to serve as principal of McKinley Alternative Learning Center,” Swegarden said. “I look forward to working alongside students, staff and families to create a supportive environment where every student feels valued, encouraged and empowered to succeed.”
Aufforth, who served as the principal of McKinley High School Alternative Learning Center since 2017, will serve as Minot North High School’s assistant principal starting on Aug. 3, pending school board approval.

Brian Aufforth
“I am honored to step into this role and serve the students, staff and families of Minot North High School,” Aufforth said. “I look forward to building strong relationships and supporting a positive school environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed.”




