The Education Foundation of Albert Lea is hosting a public forum about advancing technology in the schools.

The event will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday in Room E113 at Albert Lea High School. The public is invited to attend.

A panel discussion on technology will be moderated by Manny Steil, a 2012 distinguished alumni award winner. The panel comprises:

• Dr. Mark Ciota, CEO of Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea and Austin and Albert Lea school board vice chairman.

• Mike Funk, superintendent of Albert Lea Area Schools.

• Mike Larson, CEO of Innovance.

• Nancy Skophammer, Education Foundation board member.

• Jerry Tostrud, 2007 distinguished alumni award winner.

• Jim Wagner, principal at ALHS.

The panel discussion hopes to accomplish four things: establish the importance of advancing technology in Albert Lea schools, identify the state of innovation and technology, discover opportunities for more innovation and technology and make a plan of action to advance technology.

“This will be an opportunity to engage in a stimulating discussion about how technology and innovation can be used to move the students of the Albert Lea Area Schools into the future,” said Lilah Aas, president of the foundation board.

Attendees are encouraged to bring a sack lunch. Parking is available in the visitors lot on the west side of the high school or in the main lot to the north of the school.

The annual Pathways to Success event, hosted by the Education Foundation, will be Thursday at Wedgewood Cove Golf Club. Four distinguished alumni will be recognized: Elizabeth Wright, Nancy Wangen, Arthur Ludtke Jr. and Dr. Catherine Lush.