Eight candidates are running for the four seats up for election in the IKM-Manning Community School District on the Nov. 2 ballot. In Election District 1B, Megan Reis of Manning is challenging incumbent, Amy Ferneding of Manning. Reis is a 2002 Kuemper grad and former paraeducator at IKM-Manning. She and her husband, Chris, who graduated from Manning High School in 2001, have three children: Keaton in sixth grade; CJ in second grade; and three-year-old Keeley, who will soon enroll in the district’s preschool program. Reis says what sparked her interest in running was concern for the long-term viability of the district. She cites the failed referendums for renovations and additions to the Manning and Irwin facilities as an example.
She adds IKM-Manning is fortunate to have quality educators who lead a variety of amazing programs, but they need the support of stakeholders for that to continue. Reis did not live in the district when IKM and Manning combined nearly a decade ago, but she understands many people are not pleased with some of the decisions that have been made since then.
When it comes to support for the district, stakeholders have a history of answering the call when asked according to Reis. She says the annual IKM-Manning STEM Gala is an excellent example.
Reis adds she will listen to all perspectives on an issue and take them into account before voting if elected to the board. With many of Iowa’s rural schools facing the same challenges as IKM-Manning, she says it is critical the district lead the way in education.
The other candidates running include: Steven Wiskus and Josh Linde, both of Manilla, for District 2B; and incumbents, Sam Hansen and Luke Potthoff, of Manning, and newcomers, Phil Stracke of Manilla and Mike Blum of Manning for the two at-large seats. Carroll Broadcasting has reached out to these candidates and will bring you more from them in upcoming newscasts.
