Welcome returning and new parents to Coromandel Valley primary school in 2022. I am your friendly neighbourhood Governing Council Chairperson and I’m here to encourage you to join the Governing Council in 2022. Below is a snapshot of everything you might want to know about Governing Council and why it’s important to the running of our school, and the success of our kids.

Who is on Governing Council?

Up to 17 elected parents, the principal, 1 staff and 1 parent club representative. This includes a Chairperson and Deputy Chair, Secretary and Treasurer, as well as a number of sub-committees like Finance, Canteen, OSHC, Parents and Friends, Sports and others as required. If you’re not in one of the 4 main positions above, you are considered an ‘ordinary member’ but don’t let the name fool you, you are super important to the running of the school. 

What do you do on Governing council?

All sorts of important decisions regarding the school and the kids. We employ non-teachers of the school, including input on hiring decisions like the new Principal who will be appointed later this term. We can enter into contracts, approve new construction and use of funds, facilities and services to enhance the education, care, safety and health and wellbeing of the children. Like the decision to bring on Murphy in 2021, and the many improvements to the schoolyard this year. We also set the direction and vision of the school and strategic planning/policies like our strong commitment to the amazing IB program.

Why do we need this?

To involve parents and the school community and ensure that the cultural and social diversity of the community is considered. We make sure there is oversight on changes or improvements, and ensure we stay as one of the top 20 Schools in SA! Go us! We’re looking for all types, backgrounds, genders and viewpoints, reception parents through to year 6 graduating parents… the more the merrier.

What’s the commitment?

2 meetings per term for about 90 minutes. Meetings are held at the school on Tuesdays in week 3 and 8 of each term, from 5:30-7pm. 100% attendance is not a requirement, but apologies are expected and we are seeking parents who can commit to the meetings more often than not- as we do need to have a certain number of members present each time to hold the meeting. 

It seems like a lot?

It’s not, for most ordinary members, you’ll attend to have input on decisions, and greenlight any major changes that the school leadership or committee proposes. You get to keep your finger on the pulse, and make sure our school stays as amazing as it is. Our school has the most wonderful community and culture, and we want to make sure that continues, especially with the new principal incoming. The Governing Council forms a pillar of support for the Leadership team at the school.

I’m keen, what do I need to do?

You’ll need to nominate yourself here: https://www.coromandps.sa.edu.au/governing-council, and ideally attend the AGM in Week 4 (22/2/21) at 6PM in the library or online.  You can nominate yourself, or team up with another parent and nominate each other! The next Governing council meeting will be in week 8 of Term 1. You will need to have 2 doses of the Covid Vaccine, as per current Department Advice, to attend in person.

I’ve got more questions, or I just want to chat to someone first?

Absolutely!  You can call me on 0467 633 630 for a chat, message me on the Parents and Friends Page, or occasionally catch me at the drop off outside 1TT (near the veggie patch).

Sam Neville, CVPS Governing Council Chairperson