Michael Malmberg, an Elk River Area School District principal, was the unanimous decision for the next superintendent of Pillager Public Schools.
He'll eventually replace retiring Superintendent Chuck Arns.
At a special Pillager School Board meeting Monday, the group made the decision, and his employment is dependent on the successful negotiation of a contract and upon the results of the required criminal background check.
"We feel that (Malmberg's) passion for kids and his ability to instill excitement and passion in others will propel Pillager and its students to that next level of success," said school board chair Don Gaalswyk. "(Malmberg) has been a star performer in everything he's done and we look forward to having him on our team."
Late last week, the Pillager School Board narrowed the finalists from three down to two: James Lentz, superintendent of Pipestone Area Schools, and Malmberg.
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The school board visited Lentz and Malmberg last week at their current schools to see them in action.
The finalists were selected from a pool of 22 applicants based on criteria established by the school board. Six applicants were interviewed earlier this month, and three finalists were named.
