Pugwash District High

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School Advisory Council

The purpose of a School Advisory Council (SAC) is to act as an advisory body to the school principal and to the Chignecto-Central Regional Centre for Education on a wide range of issues, including policies, curriculum and programs, school practices, student-support services, fund-raising, parent-school communication and school improvement. Most importantly, an SAC participates in the ongoing efforts of the school to continuously improve student achievement and school performance.

School advisory councils are volunteer organizations that were established by the Nova Scotia Education Act.  SAC membership can vary, but generally consists of the school principal, parents/guardians, teachers, other school staff, students, and community members. SAC membership should reflect the diversity of the school community.

SAC Guiding Principles

• Education is a shared responsibility.
• Students must be the first consideration for all decisions.
• People at the local school level have important perspectives to advise on and contribute to decisions that will meet the needs of all students.
• Increasing the quality of education means the continuous improvement of schools.
• Change must take into account the unique characteristics of each community.
• Partners need to use teamwork skills and strategies to effectively manage change.
• Involving the community in school improvement will enhance the learning for all students.

SAC Resources

School Advisory Council - Handbook

School Advisory Council - Q & A

School Advisory Council - Spending Guidelines