A Message from
Milton R. Liverman, Ed.D
Superintendent of Schools

Although the entire school year is filled with activity, there can be little debate that things shift into another gear when spring rolls around.  This spring is no different.

This month brings the start of two simultaneous events:  the planning for the closure of the current year and the planning for the start of the next year.  Activities are ratcheting up in preparation for the spring administration of the Standards of Learning assessments.  Instructional pacing and student progress are getting a closer than usual look to make sure there are no end of year surprises.  This process is especially true at the middle schools where we expect to return two of our schools to full accreditation status.  Already, the Human Resources department is recruiting and hiring staff for next year.  Already, students are engaged in course selection and schedule planning for next year.  Parents are encouraged to talk with their children and contact their children’s schools about course offerings and schedule options for the coming school year.

Another major event this spring is the completion of Hillpoint Elementary School.  That project remains on time and under budget.  The building will be completed this summer.  The principal and a significant portion of the staff have been identified.  At its March 2008 meeting, the School Board approved a rezoning plan.  This plan shifts a significant number of students from Elephant’s Fork, Booker T. Washington, and Kilby Shores elementary schools to Hillpoint.  The plan also has a slight impact on Mt. Zion and Oakland elementary schools.  Parents of students impacted by the rezoning will soon receive a postcard notifying them of the change.

In the midst of all of this activity, I had the opportunity to sit down for a brief conversation with four of our many outstanding teachers.  These four teachers have been selected by their peers as the Suffolk Public Schools city-wide teachers of the year.  I won’t recount that conversation here because it will soon be broadcast on our local access channel.  I do, however wish to congratulate them on this special honor and recognition.  Part of a famous quote says “…the great teacher inspires.”  This is certainly true of all of this year’s honorees.  By their daily actions, they demonstrate that passion.  By their daily actions, they inspire their students and their colleagues to strive for excellence.  Each of them passionately wants and works for what is best for the children of Suffolk Public Schools.  These teachers represent the best of all of us.

Remember our school division motto …Every Child a Star…Together, We Help Them Shine!  Come join us because it takes all of us to ensure that our students will be successful.