In this guide

Parent(s) refers to parent(s) and/or guardian(s). A guardian is a person who has lawful custody of a child. Review other key terms in this guide.

Overview

Your school council must appoint at least 1 community representative. If your bylaws allow, you can appoint more than 1. More community representatives can bring broader perspectives and more resources to support your school.

Community representatives help:

  • strengthen ties between the school and the community
  • bring valuable skills, knowledge and connections
  • support council priorities and student success

Identify your school’s needs

Good questions to ask

  • What skills or knowledge does our council need?
  • What knowledge and resources could the community offer?

Use your school profile to help identify areas of need. Look for people who reflect the diversity of your school’s communities.

Groups to consider

  • local businesses and employer associations
  • social services and health-care organizations
  • non-profits and volunteer networks
  • seniors’ groups and cultural organizations
  • parks and recreation departments
  • arts groups, service clubs and labour councils
  • faith-based groups and neighbourhood associations
  • First Nation, Métis, Inuit communities
  • French-language and multicultural groups

Select and appoint representatives

Suggested steps:

  • check your bylaws to confirm if you can appoint more than 1 representative
  • discuss and create a list of candidates at a council meeting
  • include more names than needed in case some decline
  • match candidates to your council’s priorities
  • rank candidates based on school needs
  • assign a council member to contact and recruit them
  • share role details with candidates before they commit
  • appoint representatives formally, following your bylaws if they apply