Sandra Beaton

The council reviewed the SAC handbook and informational videos, discussed the funding status of the library project, and received a report from the principal regarding the annual report, system improvement plan, and enrollment. Updates were provided on the Nova Scotia lunch program and various school initiatives, including bullying prevention, truth and reconciliation activities, and social-emotional learning programs like PATHS and Kids in the Know. The council also reviewed bylaws, established membership requirements, and discussed the procurement of wired mice for student chromebooks. Additionally, plans were made to host an informational table at upcoming parent-teacher meetings to increase awareness of the SAC.

The meeting featured a review of the school counsellor's report, including updates on student support programs and Big Brothers Big Sisters matches. The principal provided an update on recent events like Community Cultural Night, current preservice teacher presence, and upcoming holiday concert logistics. The student success plan update highlighted that 86% of students are at or above math grade level, while identifying a need for improved problem-solving support. The committee reviewed spending requests, discussed food and nutrition programming including missing nutritional information on ordering websites, and addressed plans for future snacks. Additionally, the committee discussed drafting a letter regarding traffic congestion concerns on Appleseed Drive.

The council discussed various operational updates, including the potential for student job shadowing, funding for student activities, and school budget reports. Key agenda items included the development of an anonymous student feedback system, a report from the principal regarding extra-curricular programs, academic initiatives, and staffing, and the allocation of remaining funding for school supplies and adaptive equipment. Additionally, the council addressed parent and community concerns regarding specific event programming, communication protocols from administration, and clarification on school emergency codes and safety procedures.

Key discussions during the meeting included the Principal's report covering staffing updates for the 2023-2024 school year, the hiring of a new teacher for a booster program, and the anticipated retirement of three janitorial staff members. Contract negotiations for CUPE were also briefly mentioned. Student members reported that the Student Council is planning graduation/prom activities and considering organizing another activities day. The SAC Finances review showed a remaining balance available for new project proposals. The Home and School association is organizing a staff appreciation dinner and sponsored skating. New business involved discussions regarding the school seeking funding for a banner/poster printer to support the Wellness Goal, and planning for an Open House with a BBQ event to better engage parents and appreciate volunteers. A suggestion was made to include grade 11 and 12 student representatives on the SAC for future continuity.

Key discussions included the election of the 2024-25 committee members for various roles. The Principal's report covered staffing updates for the upcoming year, a review of school expectations and the plan for managing disruptive student behavior, an update on the cell phone policy implementation, and details about the lunch program menu, for which further questions were collected. The committee noted its interest in fulfilling roles for the Home & School committee, such as fundraising and planning student activities. It was confirmed that the SAC received $5318 in funding for the 2024-25 school year and the updated SSP for IECA was reviewed. New business involved planning for recruitment of new co-chairs, pursuing grants for an Arts-Based Program, and planning SAC and Home & School committee information sessions and workshops for upcoming Open House and Parent Night events.