The City of Manhattan recently approved design plans for their major CiCo Park renovation.

The new facilities will contain all-turf baseball fields, a renovated clubhouse/concession, new area for track throwing events, eight new tennis courts and new Bishop Stadium seating and bathrooms.

The project is estimated to cost $13.25 million up from its $8.5 million estimate in 2017. Gathering the money to fund the project has been an ongoing process, stemming from the Recreation & Trails Sales Tax implemented in 2018. The taxation will continue through 2028, and the City of Manhattan projects the fund will support a maximum of $15 million for the project.

The expanded tennis courts, updated baseball fields and new track and field areas will allow Manhattan High sports teams to utilize venues far more efficiently. Manhattan Parks & Recreation also plans to use the facilities for their youth programs.

In other news, administrators recently determined which courses will be offered as concurrent classes through Kansas State University in the 2024-25 school year. Advanced Chemistry, Computer Coding, Java Programming, English Composition 1 and 2, US History, American Government, College Algebra and Elementary Statistics will all be offered to MHS students as concurrent classes. The concurrent agreement between K-State and MHS allows students to have numerous selections for college credit, as well as special interest-based classes (like computer coding). MATC courses will also continue.

Additionally, administrators are looking to pilot a two-lunch system later this semester. The format would eliminate the second “middle” lunch, which splits class periods into two.

“I think two lunches could be a positive thing,” Principal Michael Dorst said. “I’m preparing communication to go out to our staff and our parents and our students about what that would look like. We would have to modify our schedule a little bit, but I think if we can make it work it would be a positive for most if not all people.”