Twinsburg City Schools partners with Paradigm for cybersecurity education and social programs

The Twinsburg City School District Board of Education convened on January 15, 2025, to discuss several key initiatives and administrative matters aimed at enhancing educational offerings and compliance with state regulations.

The meeting began with the announcement of a new partnership with Paradigm, which will support the district in implementing a cybersecurity course. This course, set to launch in the 2025-2026 school year, will be available to tenth, eleventh, and twelfth graders, regardless of prior experience in cybersecurity or computer science. The curriculum will focus on a "play, learn, perform" approach, incorporating certifications and competitions to prepare students for internships in the field.

Another significant agenda item was the adoption of the "No Place for Hate" program, which aims to foster diversity and inclusion within the school community. Principal Lynn Turner and school counselor Natalia Williams presented this initiative, which will be introduced in the 2025-2026 school year. The program is designed to address biases and bullying while promoting kindness and acceptance through various lessons and activities. Additionally, the board discussed the "We Thinkers" curriculum, which supports social-emotional learning and is proposed for implementation from January to May 2025.

The meeting also included a presentation by Marcy Spence, Pupil Services Supervisor, regarding updates to special education policies and procedures. These updates align with federal regulations and best practices, reflecting changes in federal and state law. The board noted that new standards took effect on December 1, 2023, with further guidance expected in June 2024.

In financial matters, the board approved the meeting minutes from previous sessions and accepted financial reports for November 2024. They also authorized the advance of local taxes for the 2024 tax year, ensuring the efficient operation of the school district.

The board concluded with resolutions regarding employment recommendations for certified and classified personnel, pending satisfactory background checks. The meeting highlighted the district's commitment to enhancing educational programs and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, setting a positive trajectory for the upcoming school year.