Suffolk Public Schools prioritizes safety and staffing in budget planning for 2023

Suffolk Public Schools is set to enhance its educational framework and safety measures following a special school board meeting held on February 27, 2025. The board outlined key initiatives aimed at improving student achievement, staff support, and overall school safety, with a focus on timely implementation before the end of the school year.

A primary goal established during the meeting is to finalize contracts with returning staff by Memorial Day, allowing for effective planning by school leaders and the human resources department. Safety remains the top priority, with plans to add a School Resource Officer (SRO) to each of the 11 elementary schools, a significant move to bolster security and ensure a safe environment for students and staff.

The board also discussed the pressing need for additional English Language Learning (ELL) teachers, particularly in schools experiencing rapid growth in ELL populations. The proposal includes hiring three new ELL teachers and a reading specialist at Florence Bowser Elementary School, which has seen a surge in student enrollment.

In terms of financial commitments, the board reaffirmed its dedication to raising staff salaries, with a proposed starting salary of $56,975 for teachers, reflecting an increase of $1,800 from the previous year. This aligns with the district's ongoing efforts to remain competitive in attracting and retaining quality educators.

The meeting highlighted the importance of academic support programs, including summer school and tutoring initiatives, which are crucial for addressing learning loss exacerbated by the pandemic. The board is also preparing for the expiration of the "All In" grant, which has funded various educational programs, emphasizing the need for sustainable funding solutions moving forward.

In conclusion, the Suffolk City School Board's recent meeting underscored a commitment to enhancing educational quality and safety within the district. As the school year progresses, these initiatives are expected to foster a more supportive and secure learning environment for all students.