Junior High Announces Mascot Debut, Community Events: Manhattan Junior High School is preparing to introduce its new mascot, “Demo,” at the PTO’s Back to School Bash on August 15 from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. Following the bash, the athletic boosters will host a “Movie on the Field.” The school also promoted the “Jock for Jackson” 5K memorial run on August 2 at the Brown Barn, an event to raise awareness for student mental health.

Board of Education Training Scheduled: A special board workshop and training session with the Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB) has been scheduled for Monday, August 4, at 5 p.m. in the new district office. Additionally, it was noted that the IASB is hosting a conference for new board members in Naperville on September 13, offering an in-person training opportunity to connect with peers from other districts.

Committee Updates: The Finance and Operations Committee recently met with Bernardi Securities to review bond repayment schedules and discuss options for managing the district’s debt service over the next few years. The Safety Committee also met to begin outlining its goals for the upcoming year under the guidance of new Superintendent Dr. Damien Aherne, with plans to collaborate with the district’s School Resource Officer to enhance coordination with local police.