Irondale made headlines in late 2011 when it introduced its Early College program, which began in the 2012–13 school year.
The program, run in conjunction with Anoka-Ramsey Community College, allows students to graduate in four years with both a high school diploma and an associate's degree.
[8] Irondale was the first high school in the state of Minnesota to offer a comprehensive Early College program.
[15] In 2010, the Irondale Marching Knights took first place in the AA class at the St. Louis Bands of America super regional.
[16] They were also declared Minnesota Class AAA state champion at the 2024 Youth in Music Band Championships.
[18] At the 2003 Winter Guard International World Championships, the Drumline was the WGI Percussion Scholastic Open class Bronze Medalists.