Confusion As Manhattan D114 Superintendent, Head Of HR Resign Abruptly

MANHATTAN, IL — Parents in Manhattan's District 114 are befuddled and wondering what exactly happened, after the abrupt resignations of both the district's superintendent and head of human resources.

Superintendent Russell Ragon and Director of Human Resources Chris Ruddy resigned late last week "for personal reasons," the school board told parents over the weekend.

"As we navigate these next steps, we ask that our staff focus on what they do best, teaching the students of Manhattan 114," the board wrote. "As a board, we are working to appoint an interim and will update you as we proceed in this process."

The board did not provide any other details regarding the reasons behind the resignations.

Ragon had been superintendent for nearly 11 years, as shown on his LinkedIn page. It was not immediately known how long Ruddy had been with the district.

Parents took to social media to express their confusion and frustration with the mid-school year resignations.

"Whatever really happened we can only speculate at this time," one parent wrote. "Either way it is super disappointing because I think Rusty was great for our district. He always listened so well and communicated great. This is a loss for our town."

"Unacceptable in the middle of the school year!" another wrote.

The district's website shows a special meeting planned for Thursday, Feb. 22.

Patch has contacted the board for more information.