Suffield Schools, Board of Ed. Start Year On Positive Note

Suffield’s public schools opened on time and without issue according to new superintendent Karen Baldwin, who reported the good news at Tuesday’s Board of Education meeting.

The session, held in the Suffield Middle School library, lasted about 30 minutes and was one of the panel’s briefest in years, according to Chairman Mary Roy. The first day of school in Suffield was August 30. Many other districts throughout Connecticut had delayed openings due to the effects of Tropical Storm Irene, with some districts opening as late as Tuesday.

Two new policies were approved by the board. The first clarifies requirements for former home-schooled students to meet the curriculum necessary to integrate them into classes. The second new policy will help students obtain credits for summer school work. Baldwin indicated that the new policies have been open for review and will help the school system meet the educational needs of all students.

Baldwin is beginning her first year in Suffield. Among the items on her plate will be the structure of the board as four seats are up for election in November, numerous curriculum issues, potential changes in the special education programs as well as the normal day-to-day operations.

In addition, the superintendent and board must find ways to cut $200,000 from their budget, as mandated by voters in Suffield. Chairman Mary Roy indicated that there can be savings found in several different areas which will not require any staff cuts. Tuesday’s uneventful meeting will likely be one of the few quiet sessions this academic year.