Manhattan D114 Names Interim Superintendent After Abrupt Departures

MANHATTAN, IL — Manhattan District 114 has tapped an interim superintendent, less than a week after the abrupt resignations of now-former Superintendent Russell Ragon. Ragon and Director of Human Resources Christine Ruddy resigned late last week, with little explanation provided to families.

Manhattan District 114 has appointed Dr. Ron Pacheco as interim superintendent, according to an email from the Board of Education. An interim head of human resources has not yet been named.

Pacheco has been principal of Manhattan Jr. High since 2003.

"Dr. Pacheco will lead the district for the remainder of the school year while providing the community with a trusted and experienced leader for our ever-growing school district," the board wrote.

Pacheco said he plans to be very visible during his time in the role, visiting the district's school often. He plans to "continue the wonderful climate that our district has.

"I am a community member here," Pacheco told Patch. "We have a wonderful school board, I look forward to working with them."

The search for a new, permanent superintendent will begin "right away," the board said.

Parents were confused and wondering what exactly happened, after receiving word of the immediate resignations. Only "personal reasons" were cited for the departures.

"As we navigate these next steps, we ask that our staff focus on what they do best, teaching the students of Manhattan 114," the District 114 Board of Education wrote to families Saturday, Feb. 17. "As a board, we are working to appoint an interim and will update you as we proceed in this process."

As Pacheco moves into the superintendent seat, stepping in as principal of Manhattan Jr. High is Vince Perillo. He's joined by assistant principal Gina Burlison.

"We are confident in the strong leadership that Mr. Perillo and Ms. Burlison will provide Manhattan Jr. High School as we finish out this school year and start a brand new chapter in August with the grand opening of our new school," the board said.

"We want to thank the community for your strong support for our school district and your commitment to a great education for the students in Manhattan."

Ragon had been superintendent for nearly 11 years. The board appointed Pacheco to the vacancy at a special meeting held Feb. 22.

Patch has filed a Freedom of Information request for access to the resignation letters. That request had not yet received a response as of Friday, Feb. 23.