“School Councils play a vital role in the education system in Ontario. They provide a forum through which parents and other members of school communities can contribute to improving student achievement and school performance.

In 2000-2001, the Ontario government took significant steps to ensure that parents, through their school councils, would have greater influence in their children’s education. New regulations were created that confirm the advisory role of school councils and clearly state that their purposes is to improve student achievement and enhance the accountability of the education system to parents.

School councils are now able to make recommendations to their principals and school boards on any matter. Principals and school boards, in turn, must consult with school councils on a variety of matters that affect student learning. They must also consider recommendations made by school councils and report back to the councils on how they plan to act on their advice.”

“ The personal advantages of becoming a school council member include:

• being an important partner in the education system, whose views are valued;
• contributing to the shared goal of improving student achievement;
• having a vehicle through which to express opinions;
• being able to keep informed about what is happening at the school and the board, and at the provincial level of education.

Participating on the school council will be a rewarding experience for all those who value the opportunity to make a difference in their children’s education.”

Excerpts from “School Councils,  A Guide for Members” Issued  by the Province of Ontario, Ministry of Education 2001 (Revised 2002). For more information go to the ministry's web site.