The Suffolk City Public Schools Board meeting on May 22, 2025, focused on several key issues, including the school calendar for June and the urgent need for new furniture at the newly constructed John F. Kennedy Middle School.

The meeting began with a brief overview of the upcoming school calendar, highlighting that June 5 will be an early release day for students, followed by the last day of school on June 6. The board also discussed the start of a four-day work week for twelve-month employees beginning June 9, and a holiday on June 19.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing the funding priorities for the fiscal year 2025, particularly concerning the furniture for JFK Middle School. Board members expressed frustration over the lack of new furniture for the school, which is set to open soon. They noted that while new schools like Colonel Fred Cherry received new furniture, JFK was not afforded the same treatment due to budget constraints and the city’s policy of not funding fixtures, furniture, and equipment for replacement schools.

Board member McGee emphasized the need for new furniture, stating that it is unacceptable for a new school to open with old furniture. He suggested reallocating funds from other projects, such as the Innovation Center, to ensure that JFK is equipped with the necessary resources. Other board members echoed this sentiment, arguing that the city should be approached for additional funding, especially given its substantial rainy day fund.

The discussion highlighted the ongoing tension between maintaining existing infrastructure and investing in new projects. Board members raised concerns about the condition of other facilities, including issues with flooding at Oakland Courtyard and the need for roof repairs at Lakeland and Nansemond River High Schools. They stressed that neglecting these repairs could lead to more significant financial burdens in the future.

In conclusion, the board agreed to prioritize funding for JFK furniture as the second item on their list of unfunded needs, following teacher bonuses. They also recognized the importance of addressing security measures, including the replacement of outdated security cameras. The board plans to revisit these discussions in their next meeting, aiming to secure the necessary funding to ensure that all schools are adequately equipped and maintained.