When Assistant Superintendent Dr. Rod Troutman began his midyear goals review, safety and security were the top items in his report at the Feb. 18 workshop.

“We want to make certain our children feel safe and secure,” Troutman said.

He noted the important work being done by Dr. Anthony Naradko, director of safety and security.

“He’s a one man department with the support of all building principals,” Troutman said.

A major district objective is to continue offering safety and security professional development opportunities for staff members.

Troutman reported school personnel received additional guidelines on the Run, Hide, Fight protocol through a video produced specifically for each building and practice procedures during mandated monthly drills.

Troutman stated the district is working to improve communication and logistics for family reunification which could be a factor in an emergency incident.

He said the district is in the process of creating a targeted violence prevention plan and Department of Homeland Security.

The Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit is offering seminars for districts to learn more about implementing that federal initiative.

In another matter, Troutman said the district continues to ensure all students have access to digital content, personal learning devices, and adequate Wi-Fi at home.

He said Parkland has an ongoing goal to bridge the digital equity gap.

On the subject of student services, Troutman reported staff have engaged in training for suicide awareness and prevention, hands only CPR, vaping issues, and opioid awareness and prevention.

On the topic of human resources, Troutman stated the district is using social media and job fairs to recruit top talent.

He said the district would like to reach more minority candidates and additional substitutes for professional and support positions.

“We need substitutes,” Troutman said.

“If someone’s not there, the job doesn’t get done.”

He credited Parkland employees for working together on district goals.

“We have complete collaboration from one department to another, from one building to another,” Troutman concluded.