Dr. Eric Melbye selected Bloomington Public Schools superintendent

The Bloomington School Board unanimously approved the selection of Dr. Eric Melbye to become the next superintendent of schools. He becomes the ninth superintendent in the district’s 100-plus year history.

The school board will begin contract negotiations with Melbye with the goal of having a contract approved at its May 10 meeting.

Melbye is the current associate superintendent for middle schools and student services in the Anoka-Hennepin School District. He will replace Les Fujitake, who is leaving after 26 years with Bloomington Public Schools, the last 15 years as its superintendent.

“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,” said Melbye. “Bloomington is a special community and school district.”

Melbye is no stranger to Bloomington. He served as assistant superintendent (2015-19), executive director of student services (2010-15), and special education supervisor (2003-06). He also spent 16 years in a variety of teaching and leadership positions with the Carver-Scott Educational Cooperative in Chaska.

“Dr. Melbye possesses the qualifications, experience and familiarity of our district to carry on the great work of our teachers, staff and administrators,” said Chair Nelly Korman. “He has a vision and skills to move the district forward.”  

Melbye earned his graduate, educational specialist and doctorate degrees from the University of St. Thomas, and an undergraduate degree from Minnesota State University, Moorhead.