I was finally able to make it out to Little Man’s school council meeting this month. I was amazed at the turnout of parents for the meeting. My previous experience has been that parents were not willing to participate and that often the school is left begging for people to fill council spots and volunteer for activities and events. Not so at this meeting.
There was 2o parents out, many of who are involved in more than one parent council. That said a lot to me. Not only are these parents involved, they are committed to their children’s education.
Since moving Little Man to this school, I have been overwhelmed by the caring and forward thinking staff and parents. Each day, I have the privilege of taking my son to a school who cares, steps outside of the box and ensures that each and every student is valued and that the parents are deeply involved in the planning and execution of school spirit and so much more.
If you are a parent and have been thinking about what goes on at your child’s school, I highly recommend getting involved in your parent council. Sure, the work is probably involved and there are few kudos being handed out by the parents who don’t volunteer, but the reward is so amazing.
http://www.canadianfamily.ca/articles/h1joining-parent-advisory-council-leads-better-edu/
Canadian Family magazine had this article about joining a parent council and the benefits, not only to your child, but for the school in general. I agree that some parent council meetings can be boring…after all, some nights we are discussing paper supplies and budget, but there are meetings that discuss festivals, artists in residence and so much more.
My city has their own advisory group to lead and and support parent councils and I am guessing that your city will have one too.
http://www.capsc.ca/
Take a peek to see what your school is looking for and join in with your children’s school and find a better way to create community for your kids!
Natalie
I have been to a couple of the parent council meetings for Eliza’s school, but I just can’t commit. I am already heavily involved in Scouts – I’m a leader in her Beavers colony, and now I’m the Group Registrar. One more meeting every month might make my head explode! But I might try again next year. Good for you for getting involved!