Manhattan 114 Board Advances Facility Upgrades and Reviews Transportation Bids

Manhattan School District 114 Board of Education Meeting | April 8, 2026

Article Summary: The Manhattan School District 114 Board of Education approved an independent contractor agreement for exterior upgrades at Manhattan Junior High School and reviewed ongoing progress regarding district-wide roof testing and upcoming student transportation contracts.

Manhattan District 114 Facilities Key Points:

• The board unanimously approved an independent contractor agreement for a new retaining wall and decorative stone installation at Manhattan Junior High School.

• Infrared moisture testing is currently underway for roof projects planned at Anna McDonald, Wilson Creek, and Manhattan Intermediate schools.

• The district is currently analyzing two bids for its student transportation contract, received from Yellow Bus Group of America and First Student.

• A food service contract renewal with Quest Food Management Services was unanimously approved.

The Manhattan School District 114 Board of Education on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, moved forward with several vital facility upgrades and operational contracts as the district prepares for the upcoming summer construction season and the next academic year.

The board unanimously approved an independent contractor agreement for the installation of a retaining wall and decorative stone at Manhattan Junior High School. The project aims to improve the exterior infrastructure and aesthetic appeal of the campus.

Significant attention was also given to a major multi-school roof project slated for the summer. The district is planning comprehensive roof work at Anna McDonald, Wilson Creek, and Manhattan Intermediate School.

Superintendent Dr. Damien Aherne and district administrators updated the board on their partnership with STR, an architectural and engineering firm that will serve as the district’s advocate to oversee the roofing vendors.

“They’re going to oversee to make sure that the work that’s being done by the vendor is the work that needs to be done and it’s done correctly,” Dr. Aherne explained.

The district is currently waiting on the results of infrared testing, which checks the existing roofs for trapped moisture, before finalizing the scope of the work. Once the testing is complete and STR finalizes the paperwork, the district will have its attorney draft a formal contract. To keep the project on schedule for the summer, the board agreed to hold a special meeting on Wednesday, April 29, at 6:00 p.m., where they expect to formally approve the roofing contract.

Operationally, the district is currently reviewing its options for student transportation. Bids for the transportation contract were due and publicly opened on April 7. The district received proposals from two vendors: Yellow Bus Group of America and First Student.

Administrators are currently analyzing and comparing the bids against the district’s routing and financial needs, with a formal update and potential recommendation expected in the coming weeks.

Additionally, the board ensured continuity in its cafeterias by unanimously approving a food service contract renewal agreement with Quest Food Management Services.