Takeaways from Manhattan-Ogden USD 383 school board meeting
Week of February 19, 2026
School board approves partnership with Fort Riley
District warns of potential $7 million budget shortfall
Board monitors potential north Manhattan TIF district
Board split on $388,000 iPad purchase
Over $550,000 approved for tech infrastructure
Spilski named new Manhattan High athletic director
Virtual academy principal announces retirement
Local educator named Kansas Master Teacher
Members caution against divisive social media use
School board approves partnership with Fort Riley
MANHATTAN, Kan. - The USD 383 Board of Education unanimously approved an intergovernmental support agreement with the U.S. Army garrison at Fort Riley. Under this arrangement, the school district will manage renovation construction projects for the military base through a construction manager at risk process. In exchange, the district will receive an 8 percent administrative fee on the projects, which Garrison Commander Col. Jerry Nunziato noted could amount to significant revenue, citing a similar agreement in Geary County Schools (USD 475) that generated more than $10 million.
District warns of potential $7 million budget shortfall
MANHATTAN, Kan. - Board members discussed a looming funding crisis linked to the Kansas Legislature's proposed special education funding. One board member warned that if the state does not fully fund special education, the general fund could lose approximately $1,000 per student. The member estimated this could result in a $7 million loss for USD 383 next year, potentially jeopardizing jobs, and urged the community to contact legislators regarding public school funding.
Board monitors potential north Manhattan TIF district
MANHATTAN, Kan. - The board discussed a potential new tax increment financing district proposed for the K-State Foundation Edge District north of Bill Snyder Family Stadium. While the Manhattan City Commission recently passed a resolution allowing staff to work on the project, the school board holds veto power over TIF districts. Superintendent Eric Reid and Assistant Superintendent Eric Downs plan to meet with city officials to learn more about the project, which utilizes tax valuation increases to fund infrastructure.
Board split on $388,000 iPad purchase
MANHATTAN, Kan. - Following a debate regarding technology in the classroom, the board voted 5-2 to approve the purchase of student iPads from Apple Inc. for $388,800. One dissenting member argued that for many middle school students, the devices are a distraction rather than a learning aid, stating they wanted to see a better return on investment before authorizing further spending. Superintendent Eric Reid acknowledged the concerns but noted that removing devices would require a long-term transition plan, as current curriculum and testing rely heavily on the technology.
Over $550,000 approved for tech infrastructure
MANHATTAN, Kan. - The board approved two technology infrastructure purchases to update district systems. Members voted to purchase security camera servers from American Digital Security for $148,578 and Cisco networking equipment from K12 ITC for $407,152. The networking purchase required a correction during the meeting after a previous bid was deemed invalid, necessitating a move to the next bidder.
Spilski named new Manhattan High athletic director
MANHATTAN, Kan. - Superintendent Eric Reid announced the hiring of Shadwin Spilski as the new athletic director for Manhattan High School. Spilski, who is relocating from Michigan, has extensive administrative experience and previously managed athletics including hockey and lacrosse. He will fill the position currently held by Mike Marsh.
Virtual academy principal announces retirement
MANHATTAN, Kan. - Brooke Blanck, the principal of the Manhattan Virtual Academy, announced her retirement effective July 1. Blanck has been with the district since August 1989 and was instrumental in the creation of the virtual school program. Superintendent Eric Reid praised her "legacy of service," noting that replacing her expertise in virtual school budgeting and administration will be difficult.
Local educator named Kansas Master Teacher
MANHATTAN, Kan. - Casey Ewy of Susan B. Anthony Middle School has been named a Kansas Master Teacher by Emporia State University. Superintendent Eric Reid highlighted the achievement, noting that Ewy was the district's nominee and is "very deserving" of the statewide honor. The program recognizes outstanding teachers who have served the profession for at least five years.
Members caution against divisive social media use
MANHATTAN, Kan. - Several board members used their comment time to discuss the impact of personal social media usage on the district's reputation. One board member expressed concern about members sharing "strongly divisive political views," noting that such actions can blur the line between personal opinion and official board positions, potentially undermining community trust. Another board member echoed these sentiments, suggesting members should "think twice" before posting to avoid adding stress to staff and colleagues, while acknowledging that all members retain their right to personal autonomy.
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