Good morning, Bloomington.

The Unit 5 School Board approved the UFLI reading curriculum for K-2 classrooms (already used in District 87 and Heyworth) during its February meeting, set to launch in the 2026-27 school year.

Teachers reported measurable gains in phonemic awareness, decoding and writing skills from the pilot program.

State Farm is paying its largest $5 billion dividend to auto insurance policyholders in Bloomington today because of strong financial performance.

The payout covers 49 million vehicles (averaging $100 per vehicle) and follows recent rate cuts saving customers $4.6 billion annually.

ISU Associate Professor Dr. Elahe Javadi from McLean County said on Saturday that Iran’s Supreme Leader’s killing was a 'liberation mission' + shared that friends in Iran celebrated the news amid ongoing conflict, while experts warned political change may take time.

The Illinois Department of Transportation will fund a $248,670 project to build bike and pedestrian paths that improve access to Chiddix Junior High School, Anderson Park and the aquatic center.

The project is expected to enhance local mobility in Normal.

Dr. Robert Cavagnol was named president of Carle Health's central region, replacing Colleen Kannaday on Feb.

2; he is planning an opportunity analysis over the coming weeks to improve access to primary, specialty, urgent and emergent care (staff have served for over 30 years).

Wizard of Oz On Ice

7-10 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $24.00+ — Experience the beloved classic reimagined with breathtaking ice performances and stunning choreography.

Miller Park Zoo Stampede

9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. — Miller Park Pavilion — Entry fee required — Run or walk to support a wild cause in the heart of Miller Park.

STOMP Performance

7-10 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $36.00+ — Experience an inventive blend of dance, music, and theatrical performance with energizing beats.

Grown-Up Story Time

7:30-8:30 p.m. — McLean County Arts Center — Free entry — Adults enjoy beloved children's stories with light refreshments.

Bloomington Bison vs. Fort Wayne Komets

7-8 p.m. — Grossinger Motors Arena — Tickets available — Catch the thrilling ice hockey showdown between the Bison and the Komets.

Christopher Cross Concert

7-9 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $59.00+ — Experience the timeless hits of five-time Grammy winner Christopher Cross live on stage.

Jenny Scara LP Release Show

Doors at 6:30 p.m. — The Castle Theatre — Ticket info available — Celebrate the launch of Jenny Scara's new LP with special guests Marble Teeth and Emily How.

Brushville at Lexington Baseball Night

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Castle Theatre — Ticketed event — Enjoy an evening of music while supporting the Lexington High School baseball team’s spring trip.

Jake Owen Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening with country music star Jake Owen as he performs his chart-topping hits.

Iowa Heartlanders vs. Bloomington Bison

4-7 p.m. — Grossinger Motors Arena — Ticket prices vary — Kids take charge during a fun-filled game night with free meals and post-game skate.