Overview: The Albert Lea School Board meeting revolved around the appointment of a new superintendent, the implementation of a new phonics curriculum, and concerns over declining student enrollment. The board voted unanimously to offer the superintendent position to candidate Steve Hyle, pending contract agreements and a criminal background check. The meeting also addressed the introduction of the “UFly” phonics program in K-5 classrooms, which had nearly 90% staff support, and strategies to combat the significant net loss of students due to open enrollment.