When Parkland School District Assistant Superintendent Rod Troutman outlined personnel re-quests for 2014-15 at the recent budget seminar, he noted two successful endeavors requiring employment of additional professional staff.

The high school band, which consisted of only 50 students a few years ago, has grown to a musical organization with 240 participants.

"The band is really a source of pride," Troutman said.

Although staff have worked to keep up with the increased need for marching band instruction during the school day, additional help is needed to further develop and provide a fine music program, he explained.

He proposed adding one secondary music teacher to the staff.

Director of Visual and Performing Arts Mark Stutz commented.

"With success comes costs," Stutz said.

He explained music educators are certified in all areas, including instrumental, strings and choral.

Therefore, the newly hired individual will be able to assist throughout the music department, not only the band.

Because of the growth in the number of programs, concerts, performances, public appearances, competitions, and re-hearsals, an assistant is requested for Stutz.

This person will help in managing events and will allow the director to focus on handling growth, overseeing facilities and remaining involved in statewide programs.

The position will carry a stipend of approximately $4,000.

Troutman said the success of the Response to Instruction and Intervention program in the elementary grades and the reading prep classes in grades six and seven has resulted in fewer students needing remediation in middle school.

"They've been helped and are now capable of taking a foreign language as their reading skills are at grade level," Troutman said.

He requested retoration of a Spanish teacher position to meet student requests at the middle schools.

Athletic Director Jeff Geisel reported success is responsible for his request for a $20,000 increase in supplies for the 2014-15 budget.

"The more they win, the more additional costs we have," Geisel said.

He said if a team wins at the district or higher level, each participant receives a $60 jacket.

The athletic department provides plaques and awards for winning performances.

Approval of requests are expected with final adoption of the budget.