The school has a consultative council and parent teacher organization. Those involved in these groups, or any sub-committees of these groups, are advised that these bodies exist to support the school and are important for the school's viability, but they have very different functions. These bodies, their chairpersons, and their members do not have any authority to act independently on behalf of the school or parish. They are not "agents" of the school or parish and any actions taken must receive official written approval from the principal. The principal ensures all actions are aligned with the pastor's and parish's vision.
The Consultative Board
The Consultative Board works toward the longevity and viability of the school. Members are invited by the principal and/or pastor. They include members of the school, parish, and local civic communities. The board meets on the fourth Thursday of each month.
The general responsibilities of the Consultative Board are as follows: strategic planning; resource development; institutional advancement; advice and counsel with regard to financial planning, management, and reporting; marketing of the school; and evaluation of the Board's goals and activities.
The membership of the Consultative Board should include pastor, principal, parents (no more than one-third of the total membership), alumni parents, parishioners, members of the civic and local business community, and area educators. Under Canon Law and Archdiocesan Guidelines, the members advise the administrative team (pastor and principal) and cannot make decisions binding for the parish education program without the approval of the administrative team. (A Primer on Educational Governance in the Catholic Church, CACE/NABE Governance Task Force, NCEA, 1998).
Parent-Teacher Organization
The Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) plans school fundraisers, organizes activities, and provides funds for enrichment of the school community. The PTO recognizes each parent and teacher as a member of the PTO. It welcomes their attendance at meetings and encourages their participation in all activities. The PTO usually meets on the first Tuesday of each month.
The main functions of the Parent Teacher Organization and any of its subcommittees are to raise funds for the school's current operational expenses, to promote parental support for the school program, and to increase mutual understanding between school and parents. The membership of the Parent Teacher Organization will include the pastor, the principal, the parents or legal guardians, and the faculty of the school.
Financial operation of the Parent Teacher Organization and any of its subcommittees shall be governed by the regulations for financial operations as found in the Parent Teacher Organization Bylaws.
