By SUSAN RUMBLE

Special to The Press

As part of the ongoing budget preparation process, Parkland Assistant Superintendent Tim Chorones presented staff requests for the 2024-2025 school term to the school board at the March 19 meeting.

“We continue to evaluate where additional staff may be needed across the district,” Chorones said.

He recommended two math specialists be added, one at each middle school.

The individuals would work in a manner similar to reading specialists to provide math instruction plus intervention in a “multi-tiered support system” to help students move forward.

Chorones asked for two district wide professional staff positions to be funded and available if enrollment increases over the summer.

He turned his attention to the district music program and the increased number of students participating in string instruction and performance.

He requested one new music teacher for the middle school level.

Chorones said the additional staff person would provide instruction in small group settings, while reducing class sizes and lending assistance to other music classes and performing groups.

Board member Chris Pirrotta expressed support for the additional music teacher and the string program.

He reported stopping in at the String Jam which was taking place at the high school the same evening as the meeting.

All string students from the district, grades four-12, mingle together and perform a small concert, filling the entire gym.

“What a great event,” Pirrotta said. “It really is cool.”

He also mentioned Parkland’s focus on academics, arts and athletics.

“We have three pillars and we treat them all equally,” Pirrotta said. “I appreciate that.”

Chorones next took a look at support staff requests.

He recommended up to five additional paraprofessionals who would offer support for learning, life skills, student Individualized Education Plans, and kindergartners who require extra help.

The assistant superintendent asked for three health room aides to move from part time to full time, noting it is difficult to fill these positions and retain employees.

In the matter of stipends, Chorones requested a head coach for the middle school girls wrestling program and two choreographers for middle school spring events.

No action was taken on the staff requests.

They will be taken under review at the budget seminar on April 26.