Board Report: August 2023
On Tuesday 1/8, the SCPS school board met for the fifth time in 2023. Board members met both in person and via Webex.
Mrs Beard explained the Department’s ‘Connect and Respect’ campaign, aimed to reduce violence in WA public schools. Community members may see posters and communications about this. We recognise the efforts of all members of the SCPS learning community in providing a safe and supportive environment for all staff, students and families.
Mrs Beard and Mrs Young also gave the Board an update on the school’s Mental Health and Wellbeing programs. The school uses the ‘Be You’ framework to research and implement evidence-based social/emotional learning programs for all students. There are mindfulness and meditation sessions running at classroom, small group and individual levels across the school. Ms Young outlined the Year 6 programs, which includes content and speakers from ‘Black Dog on a Lead’ and the use of a ‘Wellbeing Journal’.
The Board heard about the excellent work that the school is doing in the area of sustainability. The Canteen manager is enthusiastically collaborating with teaching staff to make ‘green’ changes in the canteen, including a trial of ‘bowl service’ for year 4 students and changes to the way some foods are served. The board were provided with the school’s impressive sustainability plan, and we recognise the excellent work of Ms Rochelle Anderson in this area. The school is currently a finalist in the prestigious 2023 “Waste Sorted” awards; an exciting achievement, no matter what the ultimate outcome may be! Thank you to all staff and students involved in this work.
The Board also heard an update on the school’s finances and budgeting, the new rules coming from the Working With Children Screening Unit and the Funding Agreement for Schools. We also discussed parent communication and social media.
Finally, the board endorsed a half-day school closure for the 2023 “Learning Journey” which provides families with an opportunity to celebrate their children’s work by visiting classrooms with the students.
The Board convenes once again on 5th September.
Ferne Watson
Parent Representative on the Board