A big congratulations to the seven teachers who were identified as finalists last week for the Albert Lea Area Schools Teacher of the Year Award:

• Steve Alford

• Wendy Bidne

• Jenni Braaten

• Lisa Haney

• Robin Hundley

• Jenna Miller

• Kristen Seeger

With the schools being closed last week for spring break, we plan to have a story this week telling the community more about each of these teachers.

The Teacher of the Year reception will be March 28. The social begins at 3:30 p.m., and the program starts at 4 p.m. in the Albert Lea High School commons area.

We wish all the finalists the best of luck, and thank them for their dedication to their students.