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The Stillwater Area School Board on Friday night voted unanimously to hire Albert Lea Area Schools Superintendent Mike Funk as the district’s next superintendent.

Funk was recently named the 2022 Minnesota Superintendent of the Year by the Minnesota Association of School Administrators.

“Dr. Funk has shown our board that he not only meets, but exceeds, the hiring criteria established by our board and stakeholders,” Stillwater Board Chairwoman Alison Sherman said in a statement. “As the new leader of Stillwater Area Public Schools, Dr. Funk will be able to build on the past work and successes the Stillwater Area School District is known for, and he is committed to moving the district forward. We are excited for this next chapter of student achievements to begin.”

In an email to the Tribune, Neal Skaar, president of the Albert Lea Board of Education, said members would follow procedures provided by the Minnesota School Board Association regarding the search and hire of a new superintendent should Funk agree to a contract offer.

“I would like to congratulate Dr. Funk for his successful quest for a new challenge and thank him publicly for his remarkable service to our school district and community,” he wrote. “.. The movement of superintendents is normal and should not be interpreted in a negative way. Dr. Funk’s tenure in our district far exceeds the norm and he has served us well. I am very thankful for that and wish him well in all future endeavors.”

The decision is contingent on Funk agreeing to a contract, as well as the results of a background check. The board expects to approve a contract by mid-April. If approved, Funk would begin the new position as superintendent of Stillwater Area Public Schools July 1.