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School Councils

School Council 101 – Presentation Overview

Purpose of the virtual session:

This presentation provides School Council members with an overview of the role and purpose of School Councils, their responsibilities, and the practices that support effective, inclusive, and collaborative school communities.

Participants will explore how School Councils can contribute to student achievement and well-being, strengthen parent/caregiver engagement, and work collaboratively with the Principal and broader school community.

Topics covered

  1. Understanding the Purpose of a School Council
  2. School Council Roles and Responsibilities
  3. Parent/Caregiver Engagement and Inclusion
  4. Effective School Council Meetings
  5. Communication, Collaboration and Conflict Resolution
  6. School Council Goals, Fundraising and Financial Responsibilities

Please join us to strengthen your School Council’s impact; it’s not about doing more; it’s about doing differently.

Date: Thursday, November 12, 2026

Time: 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

PLEASE REGISTER HERE

For additional School Council resources

School Council

You are invited to the School Council Opportunities for Progress and Enrichment (SCOPE)

Civil Discourse: The Art of Productive Agreements

Purpose of the Session

Building on the understanding that disagreement is a valuable part of meaningful dialogue, this session explores how differences of opinion can become opportunities for collaboration and constructive outcomes.

Participants will explore strategies for engaging across differing perspectives with curiosity, active listening, respect and intellectual humility. Through practical approaches to communication and dialogue, attendees will learn how to navigate challenging conversations, manage disagreements and work toward productive agreements.

The session will examine ways to foster meaningful dialogue within School Councils, schools and broader communities. By embracing the courage to remain engaged in difficult conversations, participants will discover how civil discourse can strengthen relationships, build shared understanding and support collaborative decision-making.

Please join us to strengthen your School Council’s impact; it’s not about doing more; it’s about doing differently.

Date: Wednesday, December 2, 2026

Time: 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

PLEASE REGISTER HERE

Registration: School Council

School Councils are at the heart of our school communities. By bridging the gap between home and the classroom, you play a vital role in driving student success and keeping our education system accountable, transparent, and deeply connected to families.


Under Regulation 612 of the Education Act, every school is paired with a Council to ensure parent voices are woven into the fabric of our schools.


Our Shared Commitment

Every parent and caregiver belongs here. We encourage our Councils to cultivate warm, inclusive spaces where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected. Because engagement looks different for every family, we invite our Councils to work alongside us to:

  • Elevate Voices: Create welcoming avenues for families to share their unique perspectives and expertise.
  • Build Connections: Foster strong, collaborative relationships that break down traditional barriers to getting involved.
  • Remove Obstacles: Actively identify and clear the path so every caregiver can fully participate.
  • Advance Equity: Challenge exclusionary practices to ensure an equitable environment regardless of race, class, background, ability, or language.
Explore the tools and resources below to help support, establish, and grow an impactful School Council in your community. Thank you for your vital partnership. 


NEW: Under Ontario Regulation 521/01: Collection of Personal Information, school boards are required to collect a Police Record Check from members of certain committees, including School Councils. A Police Record Check will be required at your own cost (if applicable) if you are appointed.