Why parents should engage in school decisions

Introduction

Many parents assume that school decisions are made solely by administrators and educators, but the truth is, parental involvement plays a crucial role in shaping school programs, extracurricular activities, and the overall student experience.

Engaging in school decisions doesn’t just benefit your child—it strengthens the entire school community and ensures that education reflects the values and priorities of families. Here’s why your voice as a parent matters and how you can make a meaningful impact.

1️⃣ Fundraising & Grant Applications Through School Councils

Schools operate within financial limits, and parental involvement in school councils can help raise additional funds for classroom resources, extracurricular programs, and special projects. Parents who engage in school councils can work together to organize fundraisers, apply for grants, and support initiatives that directly benefit students.

🔹 Example: A school council successfully raised funds to purchase additional learning materials and sponsor student clubs, providing enrichment beyond the school’s allocated budget.

📌 How to Get Involved:

✅ Join fundraising committees or participate in school council-led initiatives.

✅ Apply for grants that provide additional resources for student programs.

✅ Support school-wide fundraising efforts that benefit students and teachers.

2️⃣ Hot Lunch Program for Elementary Schools

Many elementary schools offer a hot lunch program, which provides students with nutritious, pre-approved meal options during school hours. Parent representatives play a crucial role in selecting vendors that meet the Ontario Ministry of Education’s PPM 150 guidelines, which set nutrition standards for school food programs.

📌 What is PPM 150?

PPM 150 (Policy/Program Memorandum No. 150) outlines the nutrition standards for food and beverages in schools, ensuring that meals offered through school programs are healthy, balanced, and support student well-being.

📌 How is the Hot Lunch Program Managed?

✔ Parent representatives select vendors based on PPM 150 guidelines.

✔ Parent volunteers distribute hot lunches to students on designated days.

✔ School councils coordinate with vendors to ensure timely and smooth operations.

🔹 Example: A school council worked with vendors to introduce a variety of fresh, locally sourced meals, giving students access to nutrient-rich foods while accommodating dietary restrictions.

📌 How to Get Involved:

✅ Become a parent representative to help select an approved food vendor.

✅ Volunteer to help distribute hot lunches on assigned days.

✅ Ensure vendors comply with PPM 150 by reviewing menu options and nutritional content.

✅ Advocate for variety and affordability in hot lunch programs to ensure all students can participate.

3️⃣ Stronger Parent-School Partnerships Benefit Students

When parents and schools work together, student achievement improves. Research shows that children whose parents are engaged in school decisions perform better academically, develop stronger communication skills, and feel more connected to their school environment.

🔹 Example: Schools that foster active parent engagement have seen higher student motivation, stronger leadership skills, and a more positive school culture.

📌 How to Get Involved:

✅ Attend parent-teacher conferences and engage with your child’s education.

✅ Volunteer at school events to build relationships with teachers and administrators.

✅ Support extracurricular activities and student leadership programs.

4️⃣ Special Education & Student Support Programs Need Parent Advocates

Parents of students with diverse learning needs must have a seat at the table when it comes to special education planning. Whether it’s ensuring a child has access to an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or additional learning support, parents play a key role in pushing for inclusivity and tailored resources.

🔹 Example: Parent advocacy has led to more special education staff, increased access to learning support programs, and better teacher training in supporting diverse learners.

📌 How to Get Involved:

✅ Learn about special education policies and available school board resources.

✅ Attend advisory committee meetings focused on student support services.

✅ Work with teachers and administrators to ensure your child gets the support they need.

5️⃣ School Councils Can Help Fund Teachers’ Wish Lists

Teachers often have specific classroom needs that aren’t covered by the standard school budget. School councils can create a teacher’s wish list and allocate funds to support these requests if the budget permits.

🔹 Example: A school council funded additional books, art supplies, and technology tools for classrooms based on teacher recommendations.

📌 How to Get Involved:

✅ Encourage teachers to submit a wish list to the school council.

✅ Work with the council to prioritize funding based on available resources.

✅ Support fundraising efforts that directly contribute to classroom improvements.

6️⃣ Encouraging Well-Rounded Education & Extracurricular Activities

Education goes beyond academics—it includes extracurricular activities, leadership programs, and skill-building opportunities. Parent involvement helps ensure that students have access to diverse learning experiences that prepare them for future success.

🔹 Example: Parents have played a role in expanding music programs, STEM clubs, and outdoor learning initiativesto support student development.

📌 How to Get Involved:

✅ Support student-led clubs and leadership programs.

✅ Advocate for extracurricular funding and school partnerships.

✅ Encourage community involvement in school activities.

Conclusion: Your Voice Matters

Parental engagement in school decisions is not just beneficial—it’s essential. Every parent has the power to strengthen school programs, enhance fundraising efforts, and support teachers in creating better learning environments for students.

By staying involved, you help create a school environment that prioritizes student success and meets the evolving needs of the community.

📌 Take the First Step Today!

✅ Join your school’s Parent Council

✅ Attend an upcoming school board meeting