Lanier Elementary School Council 2006-2007 Principal – John Wiggins Teacher Representative – Elaine Briscoe Teacher Representative – Emily Hulsey Parent Representative – Teri Minor Parent Representative – Alisa White Business Representative – April Bloomer Business Representative – Jimmy Kiser

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:

• 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.

The 2004 General Assembly in HB 1190 provided flexibility in membership, chairmanship, meetings, elections and trainings for school councils. The changes also provided clarity that school councils are to focus on student achievement and school improvement.

Who Serves on a School Council?

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

• The principal
• At least two certificated 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

Council members serve a term of two years, or for a term 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 assessments
• 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
• Methods and specifications for the delivery of early intervention services or other appropriate services for underachieving students

The role of the council in the principal selection process is determined in policy written by the local board of education.

For additional information, contact the Georgia School Council Institute