September 17th, 2015
At this time of year we invite parents to join our School Council. The School Council regulation under the Education Act came into effect which sets out specific requirements regarding some of the duties and mandate of a School Council. One of them is that parents must be informed about possible school council elections. In the past, Mary Johnston School Council has not needed an election of school council members, but we have benefited immensely from the work of the people who have volunteered to participate in School Council activities.
We would like to extend a special invitation to all of our new Kindergarten parents as well as to parents who are new to Mary Johnston P.S. to come to our monthly School Council meetings. We are always looking for new and fresh ideas to help support and enhance the learning environment of our school.
What is the role of a school council?
A school council is an advisory body that functions within the parameters of the Ministry of Education and Board Policy. School councils provide an opportunity and a means to advise the principal and the Board on any matter pertaining to improvements of pupil achievement and enhancing the accountability of the education system to parents/guardians. The ultimate responsibility for the administration and management of the day to day operation of the school rests with the principal.
At Mary Johnston Public School, we have a large and active school council. Our school council has accomplished many things over the years to enrich the lives of our students, staff, families and community. Most recently, we have run successful fundraising efforts that are used to support events and purchases beyond the school’s budget. This includes such things as supplementing off campus trips, technology and supplies for the classroom, theatre presentations, library materials, playground equipment, trees and greening projects, and events such as the Science Fair.
Who can participate?
All parents and community members are welcome to attend our school council meetings. They are also eligible to become voting members of school council by contacting the office to show an interest and attending monthly meetings. Elections for executive positions and voting members are held in September of each school year. If you are interested in being a voting member of the School Council, please complete the attached form and return it to the school by September 23, 2015.
School Council Nomination Election Form 2
When does School Council meet?
Meetings are scheduled for the following dates:
September 23rd October 21st
November 18th January 20th
February 17th April 20th
May 18th June 15th
School Council meetings start at 7:00 p.m. Please join us at 6:30 p.m. for a coffee with other parents. Babysitting will be provided.
If you have any further questions, please contact me at the school.
Yours truly,
Helmut Tinnes
Principal