The IKM-Manning Community School District Board of Education unanimously voted Tuesday on a call for a $19.95 million general obligation bond referendum set for Tuesday, Sept. 14. The proposed projects address facility needs, including a new middle school addition with STEM, SPARK and science classrooms, maker spaces, a library, activity commons, gym and locker rooms. They will also renovate the existing middle school space in Manning and complete renovations at the high school that include areas for career and technical education, ag and general classrooms, restroom upgrades and a new media center. This proposal will consolidate district offices in Manning and keep the Irwin Elementary school open. A long-term maintenance plan will be developed and a new roof installed on the entire existing building in Manning. Irwin Elementary will receive HVAC improvements, ADA accessible restroom updates and playground renovations. The results of community-wide surveys were also presented Tuesday, showing 81 percent of respondents agreed or strongly agreed the district should address pressing facility needs as soon as possible. “After a great deal of evaluation and study by the district and our board, we are pleased to be able to offer a proposal for the community’s consideration in September,” says Board President, Sam Hansen. “We know that we must address our facility needs soon so that we can ensure our students have the opportunities they need to truly thrive in the 21st century. If approved, the upcoming bond issue would give our school district the critical resources needed to make it happen.” Public meetings will be scheduled in the coming weeks, allowing residents to learn more about the proposed plan and provide feedback. Details will be made available at ikmmanningbond.org.
