In 1940 the Idana school was replaced with a concrete, WPA building that upgraded its amenities by offering indoor plumbing. Still hosting two classrooms, the split-level building had a basement with a full stage. A dedication ceremony was held in August of 1941, where attendees brought a picnic dinner. The state WPA administrator, Clarence G. Nevins spoke and others told about the township and schools’ histories. Musical numbers were also performed.
Annually, two teachers were employed at the school, one for each age group. Records of attendance, class lists, and more, are available on our website. In 1935, teachers were contracted for 180 days; female teachers earned $90 per month and male teachers $100 per month. Meanwhile, the monthly tuition cost per student was $4, with a total of 42 students enrolled at the school. (Respectively, that’s $2,100/$2,334 for monthly salaries, and $93 each for tuition.)
In comparison, the average cost-per-student in Kansas was $18,324 for the 2023-2024 school year.)
In 1941, hot lunches were brought to the district through another WPA initiative. The same year, 89 teachers were employed with the district. Some reports say the school was used until 1966 when USD 379 was formed, however, enrollment cards date up to 1972. At that time there were between 30 and 35 students, who were bussed to Morganville or Clay Center. Seventh and eighth graders had the choice, while sixth and younger went to Morganville. CCCHS was the only in-district option for those who attended high school.
In addition, the town’s railroad service ended in 1964 with the construction of Milford reservoir, which greatly affected businesses. By 1990 the population was counted at 51, and sat at 54 in the 2020 census.
The school was used for community use, including a voting center, until handicap access was mandated; the school has steps to its front door and no ramp. It was then owned by a local resident and used for storage, until a nearby fire pit sent embers onto its roof, leaving it open to the elements.
More pictures available at KCLYradio.com
Research via Susan Hammond.
