Purpose and Role of the School Council
According to the Ministry of Education Regulation 612 and the York Region District School Board’s Policy 262.0, the purpose of school councils is to support improved student learning and an increased sense of shared accountability for public education.
As stated in Board Policy 262.0, “the Board believes that school councils play an important role in building school, family and community partnerships by providing input into relevant Board and school level decisions and by encouraging the involvement of all members of the school community in support of student learning.”
Responsibilities of the School Council
School Councils are advisory bodies that can make recommendations to the principal and/or the Board. School councils shall meet at least four times per year. Meetings are open to the public and are held in a location accessible to the public. Decisions are made only when there is a quorum (a majority of the members are present and a majority of those present are parent members.) All activities of the School Council must be in compliance with Board policies.
Responsibilities of School Council Members
The members of school council are accountable to the parents they represent and Must:
Maintain a school-wide perspective on issues.
Regularly attend school council meetings.
Participate in information and training programs.
Act as a link between the school council and the community.
Encourage the participation of all parents within the school community.
Participate on sub-committees and assist with the tasks of the school council.