Board Section

Policy #262.0

Rationale

The York Region District School Board, through its mission statement, believes that collaborative partnerships among the school, the family and the community are essential to improving student learning and increasing a shared sense of accountability for public education.

The Board believes that strong school community partnerships are built around a common vision, common goals and nurtured through regular communication, meaningful consultation and extensive involvement of all members of the school community.

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.

School councils achieve these goals through a variety of strategies including:

• communicating with, and providing ongoing advice to the principal;
• participating in the development and implementation of the school improvement plan;
• volunteering in various capacities;
• promoting parent education and learning at home;
• coordinating community resources.

While the primary role of a school council is focused within the school community, the Board values advice from school councils on the development and review of policies and other matters of concern to councils.

Policy

It is the policy of the York Region District School Board that each school in its jurisdiction shall establish and support a vibrant school council that represents the school community and promotes improved student learning through the development of school, family and community partnerships.

Definitions:

School Community: Includes, but not limited to, parents, administrators, teaching staff, support staff, students and members of the local community.

POLICY HISTORY

Approved 1996
Reviewed 1997
Amended 2001