I have been the president of Gold Creek School Parents & Citizens association for 9 years. I have fostered the community and advocated for families. It has been a hugely rewarding experience.
Joining the Parents & Citizens Associations when my daughter was in preschool was one of the best moves I ever made. I made friends, learned new skills, had a lot of fun, and improved the school. I recommend everyone spend at least a little time with their P&C association.
Parent advocacy
I have been in the fortunate position where I have the time, ability, and knowledge required to advocate for my children. Not everyone does. I’ve also been lucky to share that time, ability, and knowledge to support other families in advocating for thier children. Families navigating learning difficulties, bullying, home learning during covid, and more have all needed support. I’m honored they could trust and turn to me to provide that support.
While I have values my efforts in this space, I would love to see professional support available to go to bat for families.
Fundraising
P&C Assocaitions often supported the school by fundraising for non-essential items, and my time at Gold Creek School has been no different. We have been fundraising for new playground equipment for some time now, and are nearing our goal!
When I first started with the P&C, sugar-based fundraisers such as selling chocolate and cookie dough were the norm. My committee transitioned those to healthy options like a colour run and mango trays.
Fundraising is the way schools have topped up their coffers for a long time now. It is getting harder and harder with the cost of living ever rising. Is there a better way to fund our schools properly?
Community development
Above all else, P&C associations are there to foster and develop a sense of community. They say it takes a village to raise a child, but we are losing our sense of village these days. It doesn’t have to be that way! What are your barriers to being more involved in your school community?
Studies show that when families are visibly involved in their children’s school community, their educational outcomes are better. Volunteering is a big deal!
It is gets tougher for families to spend time volunteering. I’d like to see supports available to P&Cs to better engage with their community. It’s an investment in our collective future!
ACT Council of Parents & Citizens
I spent a few years as an active delegate to the ACT Council of parents & citizens on behalf of Gold Creek School. I was also their treasurer for a year. The council does amazing work, and helped Gold Creek School significantly when we were almost a Covid-19 hotspot.
Families struggle enough to volunteer for their own school communities. Thinking about the bigger picture of public education is a bridge too far for many. Thank you to all the delegates who give up their time to make our schools better.