The logistics of an upcoming Nov. 30 public forum are becoming more clear for the administration at USD 383. At Wednesday’s board meeting, President Marcia Rozell was able to clarify the format of the upcoming session which will give the public an opportunity to issue their opinions on the controversial Manhattan high school mascot.
Students and adults will be divided into four different groups, and each of those four groups will be allowed to use 15 minutes however they deem fit. Rozell said PowerPoints, speeches and anything else may all be within the realm of possibility. After the four main groups finish speaking, Rozell said there will be a raffle which will allow other members of the audience to speak with the board.
Rozell said the board will be sitting on the stage during the forum and listening to the comments from all sides. A moderator from the Kansas Association of School Boards will be present.
The Sept. 20 enrollment report was also delivered to the board last night. That date marked the deadline for Kansas districts to submit their final enrollment to the state. Eric Reid, assistant superintendent, informed board members the district has increased by 18 students this year. Reid said this year is less stressful than its’ predecessor because of a more steady growth in lower elementary grades. The enrollment as of Sept. 20 was 6,020 students.
Board members also delivered their own input on a proposed education funding plan by Governor Sam Brownback. Reid invited special educators and NEA representative James Neff to make their own remarks to the board as to what would be most beneficial to USD 383.
