Understanding the Role of the School Council and the Home and School Association

At Norwood Park School, we’re fortunate to have both a School Council and a Home and School Association. If you’ve ever wondered about the roles of these two groups and how they differ, read on to learn more!

The School Council is a formal and ministry mandated advisory group made up of parents, school staff, and sometimes community members. Its main role is to provide input on school policies, improvement plans, and other educational matters that affect student achievement and well-being. Members of the School Council work closely with the principal to share ideas and feedback that help shape the direction of the school. Additionally, this group supports student success through fundraising and community enhancing events.

School Council meetings are scheduled at key points throughout the school year, typically occurring six times annually. All meetings are held in-person or virtually and information is shared with families in advance of the meeting date.

The Home and School Association, on the other hand, is a volunteer-based group focused on building a sense of community and supporting the school through fundraising, events, and parent engagement. While it doesn’t have a formal advisory role, it plays an important part in enhancing the school experience for students and families by organizing activities and supporting school initiatives.

The first Home and School Association meets regularly throughout the school year and the first meeting will take place Thursday, October 2^nd (see attached flyer).Norwood Park Home and School Association Meeting Flyer

Together, both groups help create a positive and collaborative school environment—each with its own unique focus and contribution.