Bloomington Public Schools board selects new superintendent

The Bloomington Public Schools board has approved a new superintendent.

Eric Melbye, Ph.D., will become the ninth superintendent in the district’s over 100-year history. He is replacing Les Fujitake, who is leaving his position after 15 years as superintendent and a total of 26 years with the district.

Melbye is the current associate superintendent for middle schools and student services in the Anoka-Hennepin school district. He previously served as Bloomington Public Schools’ assistant superintendent, executive director of student services, and special education supervisor.

"I’m humbled and honored to return to a district I know and love, and eager to work with the school board, staff, students and families to set a new vision and priorities to achieve greater success," Melbye said in a statement. "Bloomington is a special community and school district."

The board will begin contract negotiations with the goal of having an approved contract by its May 10 meeting.