Covering primarily administration-related stories for the past year has been eye-opening. I have witnessed firsthand the many tasks, meetings, events, and appointments our administrators juggle each week, all while considering student input, teacher well-being, and professional development. It is truly gratifying to see such people work diligently to make our school function efficiently and effectively each day. After all, Manhattan High has over 2,000 students and hundreds of teachers, a logistical nightmare if you ask me. And yet, time and again, I am mesmerized by how our administrators make it function like clockwork. 

Now, of course, there are always things to be improved, and this is by no means “pushing aside” the issues that I’m sure many of you all have with our school. However, I want to take this opportunity to thank our administrators for their tireless commitment to bettering our school. 

As I have become more familiar with what goes on “behind the scenes,” one thing stands out. Our administrators are constantly developing creative solutions to the issues that arise within our school. From scheduling to lunch to after-school traffic, every minute detail is accounted for, giving us students an almost seamless school experience. Many of these things we take for granted on a regular school day are a result of hours and hours of practice, development and problem-solving. When an issue arises, our administrators are quick to act and resolve the problem, leading to a far improved student experience, and that is something I am truly thankful for. 

Thank you administrators for establishing an organizational system that allows our teachers and staff to instruct their students productively. Moreover, this system is not stuck in its ways. It is constantly looking to adapt, improve, and enhance the student experience. And for a public high school, that is pretty freaking amazing. 

Finally, thank you for the smorgasbord of opportunities you provide to our students. From CTE courses to club activities, athletics and so much more, your determination to continually expand the boundaries of our students, teachers, and staff is what makes MHS one of the top institutions in the state. 

Without your efforts, Manhattan High School would not be where it is today.