• SCHOOL COUNCIL

     

    School Council Bylaws
    School Council Code of Ethics

    The A+ Education Reform Act of 2000 established school councils in Georgia to "bring communities and schools closer together in a spirit of cooperation to: A

     

    • solve difficult education problems,
    • improve academic achievement,
    • provide support for teachers and administrators, and
    • bring parents into the school-based decision-making process."

    School councils provide advice, recommendations and assistance to principals and local boards of education.  The law details the composition of the council, its responsibilities, and procedures for conducting business.

    Who serves on a school council?

    School councils are comprised of a minimum of seven council members:

    • The principal
    • At least two certified teachers elected by the teachers
    • At least two parents (or guardians) elected by the parents
    • Two businesspersons
    • Other members as specified in the council's bylaws

    What are the roles and responsibilities of council members?

    All members of the school council must:

    • Maintain a school-wide perspective on issues
    • Regularly participate in council meetings
    • Participate in information and training programs
    • Act as a link between the school council and the community
    • Encourage the participation of parents and others within the school community and
    • work to improve student achievement and performance

    School councils are advisory bodies.  They may provide advice and recommendations to the school principal and local board of education on any matter, including but not limited to:

    • School board policies
    • School improvement plans
    • Curriculum and assessment
    • Report cards issued and audits of the school conducted by the Office of Education Accountability
    • Development of a school profile to the community
    • School budget priorities, including school capital improvement plans
    • School-community communication strategies
    • Methods of involving parents and the community
    • Extra-curricular activities
    • School-based and community services
    • Community use of the school facility
    • Student discipline and attendance
    • Reports regarding progress toward meeting the school's student achievement goals

    Councils must meet at least four times annually.