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A new cell phone policy was passed in accordance with Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s executive order at the Dec. 12 Suffolk Public School Board Meeting. It will go into effect Jan. 1.

The new policy states the School Board will “limit the use of cell phones and other portable communication devices in Suffolk Public Schools consistent with Executive Order 33 by the creation of a cell phone-free education environment.”  

After some discussion, the policy was passed unanimously with the understanding that it will be sent back to the policy review committee at the first available meeting next year to add more specific language.

Board Member Kimberly Slingluff said the policy is ambiguous, as there are no specifications about regulations in school regarding cell phone use. She said she requested language like “bell to bell,” “off and away,” and “cell phone-free education” to be added to the policy in an email sent to the policy review board prior to the school board meeting.

Board Member Dawn-Marie Brittingham Ed.D. agreed with Slingluff’s comments. She said she’s heard from parents and SPS staff that the policy “definitely does not have enough meat on the bones.” 

Board Member Dr. Judith Brooks-Buck said the policy is written in a way that’s inclusive of all students in grades K-12. For example, the term “bell to bell” would not be inclusive because kindergarten through fifth grade don’t have bells. 

She also explained that there may be exemptions for students with medical devices attached to their cell phones, which is why specific procedures will be determined by the Superintendent and his staff.

Additionally, Superintendent Dr. John B. Gordon III introduced Tyrone Carr as the new Coordinator II of finance. Carr has been working with SPS since 1991 and is an SPS graduate.

“Our finance department, we have a great team,” Carr said, “and I’m very much looking forward to filling in, in this new role.”

In the good news report, Creekside Elementary, Northern Shores Elementary, and Mack Benn, Jr. Elementary were highlighted for being awarded $218,000 in security grant money from the Virginia Department of Education. Northern Shores and Mack Benn Jr. will both have their intercom systems replaced and Creekside will add exterior speakers.

The Nansemond River Warriors girls field hockey team was also recognized for winning their first state championship. Aniya Woods and Alison Dize were awarded the VHSL 2024 Class 5 Player of the Year and Coach of the Year, respectively.

Lastly, Brooks-Buck and fellow board member Phyllis Byrum gave their final closing remarks as they retire from the School Board. 

“I have dedicated my life to public education, to Suffolk public schools, and to the future of our children in our city,” Byrum said. 

She has been in education for 46 years, with 16 of those years being on the School Board. 

In her remarks, Brooks-Buck said it has always been an honor for her to work with children. She has served on the School Board for 12 years.