USD 383 board approves first reading to shift to three-tier bell schedule amid community concerns

The Manhattan-Ogden USD 383 Board of Education on Dec. 3 approved on first reading a proposal to move to a three-tiered bell schedule for the 2026-27 school year, a change district staff say would reduce bus-driver demand and lower overtime costs.

District staff presented the plan, describing current route counts (32 high school, 26 middle school, 44 elementary and 8 early learning) and saying a three-tier schedule would reduce route times and staffing pressures. In presenting the proposal, district staff said the plan could cut route time by about 40% for some runs and estimated annual savings in the $200,000–$250,000 range as overtime and insurance costs fall.

"By moving to a 3 tiered schedule, we'd have about 14 to 16 pure buses, and drivers that would be needed on a daily basis," the presenter said, explaining the logistics behind separating grade levels into three start windows.

Board members emphasized they support the three-tier concept but differed over the order of grade-level start times. Jamie moved to approve, on first reading, start times of 07:30 for Manhattan High School, 08:05 for middle schools (including early learning) and 08:50 for elementary schools; the motion passed 6-0.

The vote follows a monthslong committee process in which transportation staff, building administrators and a teacher representative weighed routing, extracurricular schedules, and early-learning needs. The district also shared survey results showing substantial parent and staff support "neutral to very supportive" for a three-tier system when asked generally about the concept.

Public commenters, however, urged the board to reconsider the order and the specific times. Amber Wilson, speaking during public comment, said a 07:30 elementary start would force young children to walk in the dark and risk their sleep and safety: "Forcing 5 to 10 year olds to function at a 07:30AM start time will result in exhausted irritable students whose learning behavior and emotional regulation will suffer." Other parents cited limited after-school slots, childcare costs and the effect on extracurricular participation.

Board members responded that the first-reading vote is not final. Several said they want additional community outreach and data, especially on after‑school care availability and survey response rates, before a final decision. "This is first reading," one board member said, noting the board can amend start times at second reading and continue evaluation after implementation.

The board directed staff to continue outreach and present proposed start times and additional information at the Dec. 17 meeting; the first-reading action allows the district to continue planning for an August 2026 transition if the board ultimately moves forward.