School Councils need your voice

Our division's report card and results of our Grade 6, 9 and 12 provincial exams were released to the public at our monthly board meeting. Although we are generally improving, there were a couple of concerns, including Math. Math has been a concern across the province for the last few years and I know that some of the basics have been re-introduced to our students (ie. flash cards). However, it still needs closer examination at the local and provincial level.

Your child's school results will be revealed at an upcoming School Council meeting and that's why it is essential that parents show up and get involved. We need your voices. Like the saying goes, "It takes a village," and especially when it comes to schools and the success of your child/ren.

According to the albertaschoolcouncils.ca website, "School Councils are structured groups of parents, principals, teachers, students, and community representatives who work together to effectively support and enhance student learning. They provide a method for members of the school community to consult with and offer advice to the principal and the school board."

Because St. Paul Education is a small, rural board, our Board is dedicated to having a Trustee at most School Council meetings. In the month of October, most School Councils will be holding their Annual General Meetings to choose their executive and set their yearly agendas. Even in schools where there is no active executive, most Principals hold informal School Council meetings where parents can attend to find out what's happening at their school and across the division,

If you want to make a real difference in your child's education, it is important to get involved at the School Council level. Contact your Principal, School Council Chair or your Trustee to find out when the next meeting will be held.