The Manhattan School District 114 Board of Education’s August meeting marked a major milestone, as the board gave its final approval to a new collective bargaining agreement with the district’s teachers and staff union. The vote came after the union announced its members had ratified the contract earlier in the day. For more on the new contract, please see our full story.

In other significant business, the board heard a detailed presentation on the state’s overhaul of its standardized testing system and the district’s plan to implement a new career-readiness program for middle schoolers. The board also gratefully accepted a $20,000 donation from the Manhattan PTO and held a preliminary discussion about potentially restructuring its committees in the future. These topics are covered in greater detail in our standalone articles.

Tentative FY26 Budget on Display: The district’s tentative budget for fiscal year 2026 is now available for public review at the district office for the next 30 days. The state-required form and a summary of fund balances were provided to the board. A public budget hearing will be held before the board votes to approve the final budget at its September 17 meeting.

Enrollment at 1,969 Ahead of School Year: Superintendent Dr. Damien Aherne reported that student enrollment stands at 1,969 as of the board meeting. The district is preparing to welcome 35 new staff members and will hold institute days on August 25-26. The first day for students to return to school is Wednesday, August 27. The district’s theme for the year is “Be a Champion.”

Board Approves Personnel Moves: The board approved the hiring of three certified staff members: special education resource teacher Ryan Dila, second-grade teacher Jamie Chevick, and eighth-grade math/science teacher Wendy Wggan. Five non-certified instructional assistants were also hired. The board accepted ten resignations and approved the transfer of Deborah Baldwin from instructional assistant to building secretary at Wilson Creek Elementary.

Capital Asset Policy Approved: As recommended by the district’s auditors, the board unanimously approved a new capital asset policy. The policy formalizes the procedures for managing and tracking the district’s significant assets, such as property and high-value equipment. The policy provides more specific guidance than those in many other districts, which board members saw as a positive for financial accountability.

2025-26 Student Handbook Approved: The board formally approved the student handbook for the 2025-26 school year. The vote followed a review of proposed changes presented to the board. The handbook outlines the rules, procedures, and expectations for students and families for the upcoming academic year and is a key document for district operations.

Board Convenes in New District Office: The August 13 meeting was the first to be held in the school district’s new boardroom, part of its recent construction projects. Superintendent Dr. Damien Aherne and board members thanked the numerous construction contractors, staff, and the community for their roles in completing the new facility, which will also be used for professional development and other events.

New Math Curriculum Arrives: The district’s newly adopted math curriculum materials have been delivered to all four schools. District staff are currently unpacking, inventorying, and organizing the new resources in preparation for implementation in the new school year. The board previously approved the new curriculum to enhance math instruction for students across the district.