An appreciation of parents and guardians

St. Vital

The Louis Riel School Board is grateful for the support that we receive from our community – especially the parents and guardians of our students. To state the the obvious, we would not be anywhere without your children attending our schools.

Just as important, though often less visible, is the behind-the-scenes support you provide throughout the year – volunteering, reading with children at home, chaperoning field trips, and recognizing teachers for a job well done. These contributions make a meaningful difference in our schools.

Educational partnerships with parents are most clearly demonstrated through school parent councils. We value their fundraising efforts, their questions and curiosity, and the feedback they provide – both positive and constructive. At the Manitoba school boards’ convention on March 19 and 20, trustees passed the following resolution to support parent councils across the province:

“Be it resolved that the Manitoba School Boards Association lobby the Department of Education and Early Childhood Learning to undertake a review of the 2005 document School Partnerships; A Guide for Parents, Schools and Communities, with a goal of providing a more current document that recognizes and supports the role of parents, schools, and communities in the educational success of learners.”

With the dissolution of the Manitoba Association of Parent Councils (MAPC) as the voice of non-Francophone parents, there is an opportunity to support parents, schools and communities with formalized guidance. The School Partnerships guide was a valuable resource that is now outdated.

In LRSD, we will host our annual parent council event to recognize the important work you do and provide opportunities to connect with other school leaders. At this year’s event, information will also be available for parent council members who may be interested in running for school trustee this fall.

As a team of nine trustees, we bring diverse views while sharing a common goal – setting policies and directions that support the best possible learning experiences for students and a positive working environment for staff. It is a job that is summed up by the saying “trustees have noses in but fingers out.” It is a rewarding way to serve our school communities.

Trustees are available to attend parent council meetings upon request and are always happy to answer questions. Contact information is available at www.lrsd.net/trustees.

As spring and summer approach, we look forward to the many school events ahead – barbecues, concerts, and of course graduations. It is a wonderful time for LRSD school communities to come together and celebrate the joy of learning and achievement with “our” kids.