Assistant Superintendent Dr. Rod Troutman spoke of accomplishments and objectives in the areas of curriculum and instruction, assessment and data analysis, professional development, information systems, student services, school services, financial management, and human resources during a presentation at the Jan. 27 Parkland School Board meeting.

He mentioned a particularly compelling goal the district is working to achieve.

"We are striving to have an Individualized Education Plan for each student," Troutman said. "We can identify weaknesses through assessments and help students become successful."

Presently, all special education students have IEPs.

Troutman reported the district continues to add honors courses to the Parkland Cyber Learning Program and focuses on recruiting students from competing cyber options.

These efforts save the district money by retaining Parkland students, thereby avoiding obligatory payments to other cyber schools, explained Troutman.

He noted Parkland is addressing the needs arising within the district as a result of the diverse student population.

He said professional development is offered to teachers and other staff regarding English language proficiency standards and instruction for English language learners.

Troutman reported the district continues to expand its online course offerings.

Presently, more than 100 courses aligned with the district curriculum are available online for students and staff.

Troutman said an ongoing goal has been the use of "green" opportunities when repairing or renovating existing facilities.

He noted the district received $87,235 for participation in the Demand Response program for energy use last year.

Throughout his presentation, Troutman reported on measures taken to enhance safety and security of Parkland students and staff.

With completion of vestibule projects at Cetronia, Parkway Manor, and Ironton elementary schools, all entrances are now designed and equipped for optimum security, he said.

Troutman said the district continues to focus on transportation safety, provides initiatives to raise employee awareness of personal and student safety, and implements security measures at all district buildings.

Board member Rob Cohen emphasized the importance of safety and security of students and staff.

"These ideas are integrated throughout the goals," Cohen said. "Maybe we could have them stand alone and see them more directly?"

District Superintendent Richard Sniscak and Troutman agreed that can be arranged for the next report.