A good school council handbook is a valuable tool for all members of the council. It is a living document for current members and a great resource for new members coming onto school council each year.
When compiling your school council handbook you may wish to include the following information:
- An overview of the school. This is good information for members to use when making decisions in their role as school council members. This overview could include:
- Grades, including split grades
- Number of students at the school
- Special programs i.e. French, gifted, art etc.
- Makeup of the school community – diverse languages spoken by the community
- History of the school
- List of council members and contact information
- Copies of previous year’s agendas and minutes (this gives members information on topics raised and voted on by the previous council)
- Previous year financial statements
- Copy of Regulation 612
- Copy of the School Board Policy relative to School Councils
- Description of School Council Executive and parent member roles and responsibilities
- List of volunteer opportunities at the school
- Other resources that are relevant to school council operations or parent engagement
Use a binder for the handbook so that members can add to it throughout the year.
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