Manhattan District 114 Seeks To Fill Board Seat After Member's Death

MANHATTAN, IL — Manhattan District 114 is seeking applicants to fill a board seat left vacant after the death of longtime member Dan DeCaprio.

DeCaprio died May 9 at the age of 71. He sat on the board for 12 years, and was about to begin his fourth term, the district shared on social media.

The individual selected will serve on the School Board from June 14, 2023 through May 2025.

Manhattan School District, in an active partnership with parents and the community, will promote excellence in a caring environment in which all students learn and grow. This partnership aims to empower all students to develop strong self-respect and to become responsible learners and decision-makers. The School District is committed to developing and using a visionary and innovative curriculum, a knowledgeable and dedicated staff, and sound fiscal and management practices.

Applicants for the Board vacancy must:

• Be a United States citizen
• Be at least 18 years of age
• Be a resident of Illinois and the District for at least one year immediately preceding the appointment
• Be a registered voter
• Not be a child sex offender
• Not hold another incompatible public office
• Not have a prohibited interest in any contract with the district
• Not be a school trustee
• Not hold certain types of prohibited State or Federal employment
• Show a familiarity with the Board’s policies regarding the general duties and responsibilities of a Board and a Board member, including fiduciary responsibilities, conflict of interest, ethics and gift ban.

The Board’s policies are available on the Manhattan School District #114 website.

Interested applicants must submit a written letter of interest to Superintendent Rusty Ragon at rragon@manhattan114.org by May 31. Letters must include a candidate's qualifications.

Interviews will be held on June 5 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Applicants selected for an interview will be notified of their specific interview time.