Takeaways from Manhattan-Ogden USD 383 school board meeting
Week of January 25, 2026
Board rejects attempt to revisit school start time changes
Board members warn of fast-tracked legislative session
Career and technical education report highlights program shifts
Manhattan High debate team takes second at state
Board approves $1.8 million for Amanda Arnold Elementary renovations
CiCo Park project receives update and funding change
Superintendent confirms small fire at Marlatt Elementary
Board rejects attempt to revisit school start time changes
MANHATTAN, Kan. - Despite a parade of parents, teachers and students speaking during public comment against the newly approved school start times, the Manhattan-Ogden USD 383 Board of Education declined to place the issue back on a future agenda. During board comments, a minority of members indicated support for reopening the discussion, which moves elementary start times to 7:30 a.m. to accommodate a three-tier busing system, but the effort fell short of the majority needed to proceed. The new schedule will move forward as voted upon in December.
Board members warn of fast-tracked legislative session
MANHATTAN, Kan. - Board members and administration expressed concern regarding the current state legislative session, noting that lawmakers are attempting to complete their work in a shortened 70-day window due to the election year. The board discussed fears that the accelerated pace could lead to unvetted policies and unintended consequences regarding school vouchers and local control. The board urged community members to stay alert to legislative alerts from the Kansas Association of School Boards.
Career and technical education report highlights program shifts
MANHATTAN, Kan. - Career and technical education coordinator Chris Holborn presented the annual CTE report, noting both growth and cuts to district pathways. Holborn announced that the state will no longer fund the Fashion, Apparel and Interior Design pathway, leading to its elimination as a funded program. However, the district has successfully expanded its certified nursing assistant offerings, doubling capacity to meet high student demand, and secured a $25,000 grant to support science, technology, engineering and math programs at the middle school level.
Manhattan High debate team takes second at state
MANHATTAN, Kan. - The Manhattan High School four-speaker debate team secured a second-place finish at the 6A state championship tournament. Superintendent Eric Reid congratulated coach William Soper and the students for the achievement, noting it was a significant accomplishment for a program in only its second year under Soper's leadership. The board also approved a travel request for the team to attend a tournament in Iowa as they prepare for upcoming national competitions.
Board approves $1.8 million for Amanda Arnold Elementary renovations
MANHATTAN, Kan. - The board unanimously approved a bid of nearly $1.88 million for Phase II renovations at Amanda Arnold Elementary School. The contract was awarded to Icon Structures of Manhattan and includes a 5 percent contingency fund. The project is part of a larger effort to address maintenance needs in the district's older facilities using capital outlay funds rather than requiring a new bond issue. Construction is expected to update the building, which was originally constructed in 1984.
CiCo Park project receives update and funding change
MANHATTAN, Kan. - Construction at the CiCo Park complex is progressing with a target completion date of early April for ballfields and July for tennis courts, according to a report presented to the board. The board voted 7-0 to approve a change order of $112,940 for improvements to the throwing areas, including javelin runways and discus cages, with the cost offset by a $12,742 donation from BHS Construction. The update included details on new turf, netting and the central concession structure, which is nearing the finish of its interior work.
Superintendent confirms small fire at Marlatt Elementary
MANHATTAN, Kan. - Superintendent Eric Reid briefed the board on a bathroom trash can fire that occurred at Marlatt Elementary School the previous Friday. Reid praised the rapid response of the Manhattan Fire Department and the Riley County Police Department, as well as the school staff's execution of the evacuation plan to a nearby church. While the fire caused significant smoke, structural damage was minimal, and Reid emphasized the district will debrief to review safety protocols.
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