Involving Parents in the School: Tips for School Councils


Get the Word Out

Communication is essential to building parental involvement. What parents know and perceive about the school depends on what they see, hear and read. These tips will help you use a variety of communications tools to keep parents informed and engaged in the life of the school.

Tip #18: The Bulletin Board

Bulletin boards are often placed in highly visible locations within the school. They provide a prime opportunity for announcing school events and keeping parents abreast of important dates. Bulletin boards are most effective when they are well-maintained and up to date. Often, a single member of School Council can volunteer to ensure that bulletin board items are refreshed regularly. Items might include:

  • a meeting schedule for the year;
  • notices of upcoming meetings including an agenda;
  • minutes of past meetings;
  • information about how to contact School Council members; or
  • tips or frequently asked questions for parents on a variety of topics.

Tip #19: The School Newsletter and Website

Newsletters and school website postings can be used to send information home about important School Council decisions, and to keep parents informed about School Council meetings and activities. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Consider creating a School Council newsletter which is sent home on a periodic basis, such as fall, winter and spring.
  • Ensure that School Council activities and announcements are included on a regular basis in the school newsletter.
  • Consider requesting that an article by a Council member be included in each issue to maintain consistent visibility.
  • Similarly, ensure that information about School Council is available on the school website, and that information is updated regularly.

Tip #20: The School Council Display

You can enhance the visibility of School Council considerably by creating a special School Council display in a prominent, high-traffic public area of the school. Similarly, consider mounting a School Council display at school events and information nights, and having a School Council member on hand to answer questions. Be sure that your display includes a sign-up sheet that will enable parents to volunteer for school activities, and provide contact information.

Tip #21: The Direct Mailing Program

One to three times per year, consider using your contact list to do a direct mailing from School Council to parents using a portion of School Council budget. This will ensure that all parents consistently and reliably receive information, understand the role and activities of School Council, and are provided ongoing opportunities to become involved.

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