As we begin the 2026–2027 school year, Suffolk Public Schools will continue the S.T.A.R. Card Program as part of our ongoing efforts to support student safety, identification, and efficient school operations. All students are expected to wear their school-issued S.T.A.R. Card each day while at school.

- What is the S.T.A.R. Card?

The S.T.A.R. Card serves as a student identification and safety tool designed to help Suffolk Public Schools strengthen student safety, improve accountability, and streamline daily school operations. In addition to providing students with an official school-issued photo ID, S.T.A.R. Cards help schools verify student identity and support more efficient transportation, attendance, and cafeteria processes. During the 2026–2027 school year, the use of S.T.A.R. Cards will expand to include student attendance and cafeteria services for all students.

- Bus Transportation

Students who ride an SPS school bus are expected to scan their S.T.A.R. Card when boarding and exiting the bus for both morning and afternoon routes. This process helps the division maintain more accurate information regarding student transportation and provides an additional layer of safety for our students and families.

- S.T.A.R. Cards for Pre-K and Kindergarten Students

All Pre-K and Kindergarten students will receive a S.T.A.R. Card during the first week of school. Students who did not have their photograph taken during Open House will have a school-issued photograph taken for their card.

- S.T.A.R. Cards for Third, Sixth, and Ninth Grade Students

Students entering grades 3, 6, and 9 should continue using their S.T.A.R. Card from the previous school year until fall school pictures are taken. Following fall picture day, students in these grade levels will receive an updated S.T.A.R. Card featuring their new school photograph at no cost to families.

- New Students

Students who are new to Suffolk Public Schools will receive their initial S.T.A.R. Card at no cost. As part of the enrollment process, all students must have a school-issued photograph taken for identification purposes. Students will also be required to take an updated school-issued photograph annually.

- Lost or Replacement Cards

Returning students who have lost their S.T.A.R. Card will be required to pay a $5 replacement fee. Families are encouraged to help students develop a routine for keeping their S.T.A.R. Card in a safe and consistent location when it is not being worn.

- School-Issued Lanyards

For safety and consistency, parents and guardians should not purchase or provide personal lanyards for S.T.A.R. Cards. All students must use a school-issued lanyard provided by Suffolk Public Schools.

We appreciate the continued support and partnership of our families as we expand the S.T.A.R. Card Program and work together to strengthen safety, accountability, and efficiency while helping make the 2026–2027 school year a safe and successful one for all SPS students.