Welcome to Albert Lea Area Schools!
It is my honor to serve as Superintendent of this exceptional school community. Albert Lea Area Schools is a district filled with opportunities for learners of all ages—from early childhood and PreKindergarten through Grade 12, to adult education and a robust community education program. United by our vision of inspiring learners and cultivating growth to positively impact our community, we strive to ensure that every student is prepared for success.
Our district includes one early childhood center with childcare services, four elementary schools, one comprehensive middle school, and one comprehensive high school. Each level is intentionally designed to meet students' developmental needs. Our early childhood and elementary schools focus on creating literacy-rich environments while developing foundational skills across all disciplines. The middle school builds upon this literacy focus and introduces students to exploratory courses in the arts and technology. At the high school level, students engage in rigorous academic, career, and technical education programs, including college-level coursework, Project Lead the Way, agriculture, and other future-ready learning experiences that support their path toward college, career, or service.
Located at the crossroads of Interstates 35 and 90, Albert Lea is a diverse and vibrant community, enriched by its industries, agriculture, retail sector, technology presence, and natural beauty. Our lakes and outdoor spaces provide residents and visitors with both recreation and economic opportunity. The strong partnership between our schools and the broader community plays a critical role in the success of our students and makes Albert Lea a wonderful place to live, work, and learn.
Dr. Steven Heil and his family are proud to call Albert Lea home. He is actively involved in the community and serves in several civic and volunteer organizations. Prior to coming to Albert Lea, Dr. Heil served as Superintendent in St. James, Minnesota. He began his career as a middle and high school science teacher and coach in Arizona. He went on to serve as an athletic director and principal in Casa Grande, Arizona, and later as a high school principal in Delano, Minnesota. Dr. Heil earned his bachelor’s degree from Winona State University and completed both his master’s and doctoral degrees at Northern Arizona University.