For Teachers

It is common for school councils to be referred to in terms of their parent membership only. Teachers however, who are also volunteers on school council, bring a vital professional perspective to school council, a perspective which provides the foundation for strategies to ensure that all students have an opportunity to achieve success as learners.

In their role as school councillors teachers do not represent the views or interests of the teaching staff (as parents do not represent parent views or interests and students do not represent student views and interests), but rather use their knowledge, expertise and experiences to help elaborate a shared vision, strategic direction and policies which reflect the broadly shared values of the whole school community.

In successful schools, there is a mutual sharing of information, knowledge and ideas. In a genuine learning community there is a focus on the development of high quality school community dialogue in which all school community members are able to exchange information, share experiences, honestly express perspectives, pose questions, clarify viewpoints, explore the best available research, and develop a new way forward.

Teachers bring their professional expertise to the classroom and the delivery of quality programs. International research and practice in governance has demonstrated a shift in approach that reflects a similar level of professionalism. In the 21st century governance in both the corporate and not-for-profit sectors requires a level of commitment that includes professional learning and a focus on improved practice. Teachers can access this professional learning through online resources, attending school council training sessions, and by contacting VICCSO.

The benefits of volunteering on school council include exposure to a range of skills and expertise beyond classroom practice, personal development in management and governance and greater understanding of the environment in which teachers work, at the local, state and federal level, and a greater understanding of the school community.

For some practical tips on the benefits of parent partnership to improved teaching practice, read Jacinta Cashen's article 'Parents as Partners' which was published in the classroom behaviour and management issue of the Teacher Learning Network Journal.