DID YOU KNOW?
School Boards Must Respond to School Council Recommendations
School councils do more than organize fundraisers and school events. They have a legislated role in improving student achievement and strengthening accountability to parents.
Under Ontario Regulation 612/00, Sections 20 and 21:
School councils can make recommendations to their principal or school board on any matter.
School boards must consider each recommendation submitted by a school council.
School boards must advise the council of the action taken in response.
This doesn't mean a board must agree with or implement every recommendation. However, recommendations cannot simply be disregarded.
Why is this making news?
Thirteen Toronto District School Board school councils have filed complaints with the Ontario Ombudsman, alleging that recommendations submitted to the board's provincially appointed supervisor have not received adequate responses.
The TDSB disputes those allegations, stating the letters were acknowledged and are being reviewed.
The complaints raise an important question about how school boards demonstrate accountability to the parents and communities they serve.
School councils have a voice, and Ontario legislation gives that voice a formal role.
Know your rights. Stay informed. Participate in your school council. And if I can be of any help, please reach out!
-Melissa Baxter
Sources:
Comments