Manhattan D114 Shuffles School Board Leadership

MANHATTAN, IL — The Manhattan District 114 Board of Education has made some changes in leadership, first becoming evident at the board's March 13 meeting.

Board President Scott Mancke stepped down from his role, with vice president John Burke then assuming his seat. Board members then took nominations for vice president, with Emily Wesel winning the vote. Mancke has stayed on as a board member.

Interim Superintendent Dr. Ron Pacheco had no further knowledge of the reasons behind Mancke's resignation from the board president role.

The administrative musical chairs come weeks after the abrupt resignations last month of former Superintendent Russell Ragon and Director of Human Resources Christine Ruddy.

Pacheco was appointed interim superintendent Feb. 22. A week later on Feb. 29, the board convened in a special meeting to appoint a vice president due to a vacancy, according to district documents.

Pacheco had been principal of Manhattan Jr. High since 2003. As he assumed the superintendent duties, stepping in as principal of Manhattan Jr. High was Vince Perillo. He's joined by assistant principal Gina Burlison.

The search for a new, permanent superintendent has reportedly begun.