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Director Matt Braaten Named Region 7AA Activities Director of the Year

Cambridge-Isanti Schools

November 5, 2026

Matt Braaten prefers to stay behind the scenes, allowing students, coaches, and staff to take the spotlight. But after 27 years of dedication to Cambridge-Isanti Schools, his leadership and commitment to students are receiving well-deserved recognition.

Braaten, Cambridge-Isanti Schools' Athletics and Activities Director, has been named the Region 7AA Activities Director of the Year. Recipients are nominated and selected by fellow Activities Directors and regional representatives, making this recognition especially meaningful.

"The athletic directors in Section 7AA are people I respect and learn from every year, so being recognized by them means a great deal," Director Braaten said. "This recognition really belongs to our coaches, advisors, staff, and students."

Now in his fifth year as Athletics and Activities Director, Braaten brings decades of experience in teaching, coaching, and creating opportunities for students to grow beyond the classroom.

For Director Braaten, success extends beyond wins, conference titles, and state championships. It's about building programs where students feel they belong, develop confidence, and learn valuable life skills.

"Seeing more students get involved, gain confidence, and represent Cambridge-Isanti with pride is what makes this work so rewarding," Director Braaten shared.

Superintendent Dr. Nate Rudolph recognizes the dedication behind that work.

"Director Braaten is an exceptional leader who puts an incredible amount of time and energy into creating meaningful opportunities for our students," Dr. Rudolph said. "The hours he dedicates, often behind the scenes, do not go unnoticed. He leads with integrity, builds strong relationships, and genuinely cares about the success of our students, coaches, and programs. We are fortunate to have Director Braaten as part of our Bluejacket team, and I'm incredibly proud to see him receive this well-deserved recognition."

Congratulations, Director Matt Braaten, on this well-deserved recognition, and thank you for your continued dedication to our students and Bluejacket community.

Director Braaten stands at a podium addressing an audience inside a gymnasium during a school event.Director Braaten addresses the audience from a podium on stage during an event with military guest speakers.Director Braaten and a state record breaker student athlete smile together standing in a gymnasium set up with tables for a school event.Director Braaten and an award recipient on stage holding an award plaque at the Bluejacket Hall of Fame Class of 2026 induction ceremony.