ST. THOMAS AQUINAS RCSRD NO. 38 BOARD OF TRUSTEES’ REGULAR PUBLIC BOARD MEETING 4906 – 50 Avenue, Leduc, AB September 21, 2016 Board of Trustees' PD 9:30 a.m. Public Meeting 10:30 a.m.
A G E N D A
1. Opening (TH)
1.1 Call to Order
1.2 Opening Prayer (HE)
1.3 Public Forum
1.4 Approval of Agenda
1.4.1 Additions
1.4.2 Deletions
1.4.3 Changes
Recommendation: “That the Board approve the agenda as ______.”
1.5 Delegations
1.5.1 Alberta Summer Games Team: Mr. Taylor Stiles, Games Manager and Mr. John Bole, Chairman
2. Minutes of the Meeting (TH)
2.1 Approval of Minutes 5 - 8
"That the Board approve the minutes of the Regular meeting held August 17, 2016 as circulated."
Regular Board Minutes - August 17, 2016
3. Action Items
3.1 NCEA Conference (TD) 9
NCEA Conference
3.2 Christ The King Jr/Sr High School Grade 9 Field Trip Request (TD) 11 - 23
"That the Board give approval to Christ The King Jr/Sr High School's request for the grade 9 students to travel to Victoria, BC from May 18-21, 2017 as presented. It is understood that the
Regular Board September 21, 2016 Page 1 of 87 Board assumes no financial liability to the students and/or their parents should the Board cancel an approved student trip."
CTK Grade 9 Field Trip Request - Victoria BC
3.3 Superintendent of Schools Evaluation 2016-2017
"That the Board approve the Superintendent Evaluation for the period of September 1, 2016 to August 31, 2017 to be facilitated by Mr. Terry Gunderson, Education Consultant of the ASBA and to be held at STAR Central Office on September 12, 2017."
3.4 ACSTA Executive (TH)
"That the Board support the nomination of St. Thomas Aquinas Roman Catholic Schools' Vice Chair, John Tomkinson, to the ACSTA Vice President position at the November 2016 ACSTA Annual General Meeting and provide financial support to a maximum of $1000."
4. Committee Reports
4.1 Finance (SB) 25 - 26
Finance Committee Report
4.2 Grievance
4.3 Labour
4.4 Student Review
4.5 Teacher-Board Advisory (TBAC)
4.6 Long Range Planning
4.7 Policy Development (SK) 27
Policy Committee Report
4.8 Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA) (ML)
4.9 Alberta Catholic School Trustees Association (ACSTA) (SK) 29 - 30
ACSTA Report
5. In-Camera Items
5.1 As per Policy 7 (5.2) Individual Employees (TH)
6. Business Items
6.1 Board Chair Report (TH) 31
Regular Board September 21, 2016 Page 2 of 87 Board Chair Report
6.2 Superintendent Report (TD) 33 - 34
Superintendent Report
6.3 Secretary-Treasurer Report (EL) 35 - 36
Secretary-Treasurer Report
6.4 Father Leduc Catholic School Update (TD)
6.5 Ecole Mother d'Youville School Update (TD)
6.6 Enrolment Update (TD)
6.7 Beaumont Joint Meeting (TD)
6.8 Divisional Clothing Order (TH/TD)
6.9 Board Self-Evaluation (TH)
6.10 Child & Youth Advocate Act Review (TH) 37 - 56
Child & Youth Advocate Act Review
LO_CYAA_DiscussionGuide
6.11 Ward Review (TH)
6.12 Value Scoping Input (TH)
6.13 STAR Light Day (KB)
6.14 RTI Rubric (KB)
6.15 Pre-Kindergarten to Kindergarten Retention (KB) 57
Preschool Retention Rates 2016
6.16 Junior High Complimentary Course Divisional Offerings (KB) 59 - 61
Junior High Divisional Offerings as of June 2016
6.17 St. Anthony School Council Report (EL) 63 - 65
St. Anthony School Council Annual Report
St. Anthony Parent Council Annual Statement
6.18 Sacred Heart School Council Report (EL) 67 - 68
Sacred Heart School Council Annual Report
6.19 Notre Dame School Council Report (EL) 69 - 78
Regular Board September 21, 2016 Page 3 of 87
Notre Dame School Council Annual Report
6.20 Board Positive Path Forward (TH) 79
Positive Path Forward
6.21 Board Annual Work Plan (TH) 81 - 82
Annual Work Plan_2016-17
6.22 Board Calendar (TH) 83
Calendar
6.23 Board Action Sheet (TD) 85 - 86
Board Action Sheet
6.24 Trustee Expense Claims (TH) 87
Trustee Expense Claim Form
7. Correspondence (TH)
8. Adjournment (TH)
Regular Board September 21, 2016 Page 4 of 87
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS ROMAN CATHOLIC SEPARATE REGIONAL DIVISION NO. 38
Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees held in the Board Room of the St. Thomas Aquinas Division Office, 4906 – 50 Avenue, Leduc, Alberta on Wednesday, August 17, 2016
PRESENT: Thalia Hibbs, Chair Sandra Bannard Dan Chalifoux Henry Effon Susan Kathol Michelle Lamer
ALSO PRESENT: Troy Davies, Superintendent Kevin Booth, Assistant Superintendent Charlie Bouchard, Assistant Superintendent Edward Latka, Secretary-Treasurer Kim Beaupré, Recording Secretary Vince Burke, Manager of Communications
ABSENT John Tomkinson, Vice-Chair Karen Richert Dan Svitich
CALL TO ORDER: Chair Hibbs called the meeting to order at 10:30 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Trustee Kathol led everyone in prayer.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Deletions Committee Reports Finance Grievance Labour Student Review Teacher-Board Advisory (TBAC) Long Range Planning Alberta School Board Association (ASBA) Alberta Catholic School Trustees Association (ACSTA)
BANNARD “That the Board approve the agenda as amended.” 7 16/17 CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
Page 5 of 87 Regular Meeting – August 17, 2016 Page | 6-16/17
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
EFFON "That the Board approve the minutes of the Regular meeting held June 8 16/17 15, 2016 as presented." CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
CHALIFOUX "That the Board approve the minutes of the Organizational meeting 9 16/17 held June 15, 2016 as presented." CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
ACTION ITEMS
SACRED HEART SCHOOL ECS FULL DAY CALENDAR (CB)
EFFON "That the Board approve the Sacred Heart ECS Full Day Calendar as 10 16/17 presented." CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
DIVISION PROMOTIONAL ITEMS
LAMER "That the Board approve a $30 credit towards the purchase of branded 11 16/17 items for all staff and trustees in the Division up to$13,000 for the 2016-17 school year." CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
ALBERTA SCHOOL COUNCIL ASSOCIATION (ASCA)
KATHOL "That the Board provide for the membership fees to the ASCA for all 12 16/17 Division school councils for the 2016-2017 school year." CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
EFFON "That the Board sponsor the attendance of two (2) members from each 13 16/17 Division school council to the 2016-2017 Alberta School Councils' Conference and Annual General Meeting by way of reimbursing the participants for the following: registration fee - as outlined in conference brochure/website travel - as per mileage rate outlined on Division Expense Claim Form meals - not applicable as meals are included in conference registration fee hotel - as per conference rate outlined in conference brochure/website Any expenses accrued over and above the duly noted, will be at the expense of the attendee." CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
Page 6 of 87 Regular Meeting – August 17, 2016 Page | 7-16/17
POLICY 7 - BOARD OPERATIONS
KATHOL "That Policy 7 - Appendix B (6) be amended to read as follows: Chair’s 14 16/17 Communications Allowance per article 12.4 shall be set to a maximum of $70 per month." CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
BOARD SELF EVALUATION TEMPLATES
KATHOL "That the Board approve, as revised, Sections 1, 2 and 3 of the Board 15 16/17 Self-Evaluation Template as 'Appendix A' to Policy 2 - Role of The Board." CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
COMMITTEE REPORTS Policy Development
BUSINESS ITEMS Board Chair Report Superintendent Report Secretary-Treasurer Report Father Leduc Catholic School Update École Mother d’Youville School Update School/Central Office Board Presentation Schedule St. Benedict School Modular Update Superintendent Evaluation Board Self-Evaluation Deputy Superintendent Designation Ward Review Update Mission and Vision Signage Christ The King School Council Annual Report Reflection Day ASBA Issues Forum ACSTA Silent Auction Item
Chair Hibbs recessed the meeting for lunch at 12:08 p.m. The meeting reconvened at 1:00 p.m.
MLA Meetings Trustee Faith Development Plan Board Positive Path Forward Board Annual Work Plan Board Calendar Board Action Sheet Board Expense Claims Page 7 of 87 Regular Meeting – August 17, 2016 Page | 8-16/17
CORRESPONDENCE Chair Hibbs reviewed general correspondence with the Board.
ADJOURNMENT Chair Hibbs adjourned the meeting at 1:16 p.m.
______CHAIR SECRETARY-TREASURER
Page 8 of 87 Regular Meeting – August 17, 2016 Page | 9-16/17
Subject: NCEA Conference Information Action √
Background: Pursuant to the Superintendent’s contract, Board approval is sought to attend the National Catholic Education Association’s 2016-2017 annual conference scheduled this school year for April 18-20, 2017 in St. Louis, Missouri.
The annual NCEA conference is one of the largest Catholic Education conferences in North America and features over 200 professional development sessions, keynote addresses, beautiful liturgies and special events. The theme of this year’s conference is: Lead, Learn, Proclaim. Early bird registration rates open in September.
Recommendation:
“That the Board approves the Superintendent’s request to attend the National Catholic Education Association conference in St. Louis, April 18-20, 2017.”
Regular Board Meeting – September 21, 2016 Page 9 of 87 Page 10 of 87
Christ The King JUNIOR/SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
3511 Rollyview Road, Leduc, Alberta T9E 6N4 Ph. (780) 986-6859 Fax. (780) 986-8186
September 1st , 2016
RE; Grade 9 Field Trip Victoria
Dear Mr. Robinson,
Please accept the following proposal for a four day grade nine field trip May 18-21 of 2017 to Victoria, B.C. For the past ten years, Grade 9 students from Sacred Heart School have participated in a trip to Victoria, British Columbia. Building on the traditions of Sacred Heart, we are hoping to establish our own travel experiences. In addition to experiences of travel with friends and travelling on their own, I believe that the educational possibilities of such a trip to Victoria are endless. For many students, this will be their first flight on a plane--an experience unto its own. Then, experiencing the coast, whale watching, and the old growth forest all become first time life experiences. The Cave Geology Interpretive Program is designed specifically to support school curriculums. Students explore the underground caverns, learn about geology, crystal formations and see ancient fossils. When kayaking and dragon boating, the students learn basic kayak handling and pre-tip planning to increase their confidence and safety on the water. Paddle strokes, proper entry/exit, emergency procedures and the importance of wearing PFDs and appropriate clothing will be taught. The Royal British Columbia Museum is a place of discovery. Through unique galleries, the Museum showcases human and natural history. Authentic artifacts and specimens are displayed in highly realistic settings, giving visitors the experience of another time and place. But more than all of these experiences, most students cite the fun that they had with their fellow students by getting to know them better and develop lifelong friendships. Please find attached a copy of the full itinerary and cost associated with the trip. As always this event is a 100% ‘user pay’ and is open to all grade 9 students who meet the eligibility conditions as outlined in the attached document.
Sincerely,
Dean Heck
Page 11 of 87 Christ The King JUNIOR/SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
3511 Rollyview Road, Leduc, Alberta T9E 6N4 Ph. (780) 986-6859 Fax. (780) 986-8186
September 1st, 2016
RE: Grade 9 Trip Victoria
Dear Parent/Guardian
Few experiences complement the lessons learned in a classroom like travel. It exposes students to new ideas, broadens their perspective, and provides them with the opportunity to experience our nation! This year, we are giving our Grade 9 students an opportunity to go on a field trip to Victoria B.C. The program is being arranged by Kelsie Abrahamson of Kelsi Travel Only in Wetaskiwin. Kelsie has provided travel services to Sacred Heart School for their Victoria trip and has knowledge and expertise that we have found to be valuable. A carefully planned itinerary will allow the participants to experience Victoria’s diverse culture and heritage. A detailed itinerary including costs has been included in this letter. All scheduled activities will be chaperoned by teachers from Christ the King.
Sincerely,
Dean Heck
Page 12 of 87
Christ the King Grade 9 Celebration Student Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible to participate in the International Travel program, students MUST:
Be currently enrolled in grade 9 at Christ the King and be registered in a full-time program as of September 2016. Have maintained an exemplary record of behavior prior to applying for the trip and prior to the trip departure. Be medically capable of participating fully in the physical aspects of the tours. (ie. long days of quick walking, lifting heavy suitcases) Be able to follow and respect the directions of supervisors. A minimum of 18 students is required for the trip to proceed. Respect the rights of those participating.
This event is an optional excursion, participation is conditional and at the discretion of the supervisors and the school. The intent is that ALL who attend gain the best possible experience from the trip. To do so requires members who have common goals, respect for one another, and a willingness to work together.
Should there be an issue with poor unexcused attendance, poor behavior, or academic standing at any point leading up to the trip, the student may be removed from the program and the deposit may not be refunded.
Included in the revised price is TRIP CANCELLATION INSURANCE in the event that the trip is cancelled for any reason including the Board of Trustees cancellation or pandemic alerts. The Board of Trustees assumes no liability for costs in the event that the trip is cancelled.
Total Trip Cost per Student: $1665.00 Payment Options & Due Dates Deposit (nonrefundable* – due by Friday October 23rd ): Must be Cash or Cheque $450.00 2nd Payment November 30th $415.00 3rd Payment February 1st $400.00 Final Payment March 28th $400.00
*If the trip does not have adequate interest the initial deposits will be returned The second third and final payment may be cash or be paid using school cash online payment systems.
Page 13 of 87
Christ The King – Grade 9 School Trip Proposed Itinerary
May 18, 2017 Arrive in Nanaimo/Nanaimo to Victoria Welcome to Nanaimo! Meet your driver and begin making your way to Horn Lake Caves, for adventure, education and fun in nature (arranged by group directly) we will grab some early lunch as we are heading to Horne Lake Caves. This afternoon start the journey south, stopping in Ladysmith along the way for dinner. Stop at Goldstream Park on the way to Victoria. Check into the Coast Harbourside Hotel & Marina, offering a quiet, scenic setting with Inner Harbour views and just a few minute’s walk to Fisherman’s Wharf. Overnight Victoria - Coast Victoria Harbourside Hotel & Marina
May 19, 2017 Victoria {B, D} The morning begins with breakfast and a short walk to the Victoria Bug Zoo offering visitor’s an excellent opportunity to view and experience live tropical bugs from around the world. Lunch today will be on their own at the Pier before the afternoon’s Whale Watching Adventure! Join Victoria’s longest running and most respected Whale Watching & Marine Ecology Tour Company! Hop aboard the high speed expedition catamaran and explore the wonders of the Salish Sea with opportunities to see Orcas, Humpback whales, Dolphins, Sea Lions and much more! Enjoy dinner tonight at Flying Otter Grill then watch an IMAX presentation at the Royal BC Museum. Note – Transportation is not provided today. Overnight Victoria – Coast Victoria Harbourside Hotel & Marina
May 20, 2017 Victoria {B, D} Breakfast will be provided once again at the Hotel. An exciting morning lies ahead with Fairway Gorge Paddling Club! Enjoy an adventure on the water with a 1.5 hour Dragon Boat tour and a 2 hour kayaking excursion. Afterwards, escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and let your captain take you on a peaceful and narrated cruise up the historic Gorge Waterway. Step back in time, relax and enjoy this scenic 60 minute non-stop tour featuring historic homes, working shipyards and the reversing falls at Tillicum Bridge. Attend Mass at St. Andrew’s Cathedral before dinner at the Old Spaghetti Factory. Overnight Victoria – Coast Victoria Harbourside Hotel & Marina
May 21, 2017 Depart Victoria { B } After breakfast make your way to the Royal BC Museum, one of Canada’s greatest cultural treasures. Witness the museum’s archives, artifacts, documents and specimens of British Columbia’s natural and human history, safeguarding them for the future and sharing them with the world. Spend the afternoon at Adrena LINE Zip line Adventure park and experience a fully guided, two hour zip line tour including 8 zip lines, 2 suspension bridges and a 10- minute ATV Ride. Last but not least, visit the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre, the Aquarium of the Salish Sea! Get up close and personal with wolf eels, rockfish, a giant Pacific octopus and hundreds of other creatures without having to get wet. Today’s adventure comes to an end at the Victoria Airport where you will catch your returning flight home.
Page 14 of 87
Tour Includes: Transport on a 24 pax Motor Coach Services of a Professional Driver Accommodation as listed (based on availability) Attractions as listed Meals as indicated – (B) = Breakfast (D) = Dinner Return Airfare including Baggage fees with Airline Gratuities for Bus Driver Cancellation Insurance/Trip Insurance
Tour Does Not Include Items of a personal nature Meals not listed Attractions not listed Personal Spending Money
Hotel Coast Harbour Side 146 Kingston St, Victoria, BC V8V 1V4 Victoria, British Columbia (250) 360-1211
Page 15 of 87 Christ the King Grade 9 Trip to Victoria, British Columbia
Rationale In addition to experiences of travel with friends and travelling on their own, I believe that the educational possibilities of such a trip to Victoria are endless. For many students, this will be their first flight on a plane--an experience unto its own. Then, experiencing the coast, whale watching, and the old growth forest all become first time life experiences. The Cave Geology Interpretive Program is designed specifically to support school curriculums. Students explore the underground caverns, learn about geology, crystal formations and see ancient fossils. When kayaking and dragon boating, the students learn basic kayak handling and pre-tip planning to increase their confidence and safety on the water. Paddle strokes, proper entry/exit, emergency procedures and the importance of wearing PFDs and appropriate clothing will be taught. The Royal British Columbia Museum Imax theatre provides nature documentaries showcasing human, natural history and science. Authentic artifacts and specimens are displayed in highly realistic settings, giving visitors the experience of another time and place. But more than all of these experiences, most students cite the fun that they had with their fellow students by getting to know them better and develop lifelong friendships. On Saturday evening students will celebrate Mass together at St. Andrews Cathedral. Our last day kids get experience the Adrenal Line Zip Adventure will see firsthand the pulley system used to propel the students as gravity moves them above the forest canopy.
Page 16 of 87 Elements of Risk Grade 9 Trip to Victoria Thursday, May 18th, 2017 to Sunday, May 21st , 2017. The inherent risks associated with the trip include but are not limited to the following:
1. Travel – dangers include collisions, crashes and breakdowns. Travel on this trip will include by air, bus, boat, and walking.
2. Walking- dangers include slipping, falling, becoming lost, encountering unscrupulous individuals, or aggressive animals.
3. Activities- dangers include drowning while boating; sprains and strains and other injuries while participating in athletic activities and hikes.
4. Medical Conditions- all students are to declare any Medical Alerts or conditions to the supervisory staff, with medication being taken, or emergency procedures.
5. changing weather conditions; limited visibility, including darkness; mechanical failure of the equipment; difficulty or inability to control one’s speed, direction, stopping distances, falling trees, limbs, and ice; falling from platforms, cables and bridges; shock, stress or other injury to the body; encounters with wildlife ,equipment malfunction including breakage of cables, tethers, pulleys and harnesses; collision with trees, vans, or other vehicles, equipment or structures; collision with other participants or guides or other natural or man-made objects
Reducing the Risk: It imperative that in order to remain as safe as possible students:
1. Follow all directives by the supervisors. 2. Follow the planned itinerary. 3. Stay with the pre-determined group. 4. Listen to and follow instructions from guides. 5. Refrain from ‘horse-play’ and dangerous activities. 6. Remain under the supervisors’ care. 7. Refrain from illegal substance use.
Failure in complying with the above may result in actions being taken by the supervisors, including possible removal from the trip at the parents’ cost.
Hotel Coast Harbour Side 146 Kingston St, Victoria, BC V8V 1V4 Victoria, British Columbia (250) 360-1211
Cell Phone Numbers Dean Heck 780-910-3331 Diana Kastelic 780-994-7022 Mrs. Coyne Page 17 of 87 Informed Consent/Permission Form for Education Trips (Students under 18 years)
FIELD TRIP INFORMATION AND PARENTAL CONSENT FORM Please carefully read the contents of this consent form before signing it. Clarify any concerns with the teacher-leader or principal before signing.
DESCRIPTION OF TRIP: We will be spending 4 days and 3 nights in Victoria B.C, from May 18, 2017, to May 21, 2017. During our trip we will be visiting numerous museums, park and tourist attractions and well as experiencing whale watching, kayaking and cave exploring. Students will have the opportunity to learn about the culture and geography. Students traveling on this trip will be in grade 9 during the 2016-2017 school year. The total number of participants in the trip will depend on student interest and will be made known as soon as possible.
PURPOSE: The major purpose of the trip is to expose the students to the experiences of travel and learning about different cultures within our own nation.
ACTIVITIES AND/OR EVENTS: Please see the attached itinerary for the trip.
SUPERVISION: The trip will be supervised by; Mr. Heck - Lead teacher, Group leader and teacher Ms. Kastelic – Lead teacher, Group leader and teacher Mrs. Coyne– Lead teacher, Group leader and teacher
TRANSPORTATION: Air travel will be with WestJet Airlines. Land travel will be by private 24 passenger bus (when needed)
EMERGENCY PLAN:
1) Minor emergencies - will be dealt with by Ms. Kastelic who has First Aid.
2) More serious emergencies - Consent forms will be signed by parents permitting Mr. Heck, Ms. Kastelic or Mrs. Coyne to seek assistance from the appropriate medical authorities in Victoria should a more serious emergency occur. (All participants must purchase additional medical insurance prior to departure). Parents will be notified as soon as possible. In the event of an injury or illness, a typical emergency response to be followed by supervisory staff may include the following: o assessment of the situation and provision of first aid as necessary o decision to involve emergency response teams (paramedics, etc.) o contact with parent/guardian/emergency contact (when possible) o decision to proceed with emergency assistance and necessary medical treatment.
Mr. Heck &/or Ms. Kastelic and/or Mrs. Coyne will carry health care insurance and medical information for each student and a first-aid kit at all times during the trip.
Page 18 of 87 Behavioural Emergencies: In the event that your child fails to follow school, district or teacher expectations for behaviour which involve a serious breach of conduct, teachers will contact parents and your child may be sent home unaccompanied, at your expense.
Unanticipated Change of Itinerary If the flight itinerary changes unexpectedly leadership services will be notified and parents will be called through the telephone chain as soon as the changes are known. If hotels/accommodations change the supervising teacher will contact parents and the school.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS: Mr. Heck, Ms. Kastelic and Mrs. Coyne will be the lead supervisors on the trip. Students will be supervised at all times during the trip. The student adult ratio will be very small to ensure adequate supervision. Students on outings will be frequently counted by all supervisors to ensure that all students are present and accounted for. Students will be “buddied” with each other so that even when going to the washroom students have partners so that they can watch out for each other. Every reasonable precaution will be taken to ensure the physical safety of students during each outing or activity.
During outings there may be opportunities for shopping or free time for lunch where students may make different choices about where they would like to shop or eat. At those times, depending on Mr. Heck , Ms. Kastelic and Mrs. Coyne assessment of safety, students may be allowed to go in small groups to get lunch or shop with a pre-set meeting time a short while later, within a pre-set and clearly defined area. No students will be allowed to be alone at any time.
In the evening one of the group leaders or chaperones will check students into their individual hotel rooms and check back at bedtime to ensure that all students are present. Students are staying in triple/quad-occupancy with other students. Adults have their own rooms and aren’t roomed with students. Please be aware that while the students are in their hotel rooms they will be unsupervised but are expected to conduct themselves in an appropriate and mature manner. Boys and girls are STRICTLY FORBIDDEN to be in each other’s rooms AT ANY TIME.
Consent and Authorization Important: Parents/guardians. The following sections contain important information. Please read them carefully and ensure that you understand them completely.
Changes to Itinerary and Associated Costs I understand that the field trip will follow the description of the field trip set out above as closely as possible and that contingencies can arise that necessitate sudden changes to activities and destinations. I agree that the supervisors of the field trip have full authority to make decisions of this nature without obtaining my further consent. If such changes involve extra cost, I agree to repay the school district for those costs associated with my child. During the trip, parents will be contacted and informed of changes to the itinerary as soon as those changes are known.
Page 19 of 87 Cancellation of Field Trip I understand that the Superintendent of Schools has full authority to cancel or modify any field trip without notice for any reason the Superintendent deems appropriate. I also understand that such cancellation may mean that some or all of the money I have paid for the field trip might not be refundable. I agree that the Superintendent has such authority and that the school district will not reimburse me for any money I may have lost as a result of such cancellation.
Discipline I understand that my child must obey the rules established by the school and the field trip supervisors. I agree that if my child severely breaches the rules, as determined by the lead teacher, he or she may be sent home unaccompanied. I agree that if my child is sent home under such circumstances, I will be responsible for all associated costs incurred, including the cost of special travel arrangements.
Illness and Injury I understand that illness and injuries sometimes occur on field trips. I agree that if illness or injury necessitates the expenditure of money for special travel arrangements or any other reason deemed necessary by the field trip supervisors, I will be responsible for all of those costs. I authorize any of the adult supervisors on the field trip to consent to any medical attention my child may require.
Consent to Participate in the Field Trip to Victoria I have read and understood all of the above. I have obtained any additional information I feel I need in order to satisfy myself that I want my child to participate in the field trip. I consent to the participation of my child named below in the field trip. I also consent to my child’s participation in all activities associated with the field trip except as I have specified in the itinerary provided. I am aware that it is my responsibility to obtain all necessary documentation required for travel within Canada. Failure to obtain the required documents does not constitute grounds for refund.
Student Name: ______Grade: ______Parent/ Guardian Name: (print) ______(Signature) ______Date: ______
Page 20 of 87
Christ the King Junior Senior High School of the St. Thomas Aquinas Roman Catholic Separate Regional Division #38 is arranging a grade 9 trip to Victoria, British Columbia to be held from Thursday, May 18th, 2016 to Sunday, May 21st, 2017.
THIS FORM MUST BE READ AND SIGNED BY EVERY STUDENT WHO WISHES TO PARTICIPATE, AND BY A PARENT OR GUARDIAN OF A PARTICIPATING STUDENT.
ELEMENTS OF RISK: Educational activity programs, such as travel whale watching a guided tour at Horne Lake Caves hiking kayaking and dragon boating walking excursions zip lining
Involve certain elements of risk. Injuries may occur while participating in these activities. The following list includes, but is not limited to, examples of the types of injury which may result from participating in the above listed activities:
- collisions, crashes and breakdowns of transportation methods - slipping, falling, becoming lost, encountering unscrupulous individuals, or aggressive animals while hiking or walking - drowning while swimming or boating - strains, sprains and other injuries while participating in athletic activities and hikes
The risk of sustaining these types of injuries results from the nature of the activity and shall occur without fault of either the student, the school board its’ employees/agents or the facility where the activity is taking place. By choosing to take part in this activity, you are accepting the risk that your child may be injured.
The chance of an injury occurring can be reduced by carefully following instructions at all times while engaged in the activities.
If you choose to participate in this grade 9 trip to Victoria from Thursday, May 18th, 2017 to Sunday, May 21st , 2017. You must understand that you bear the responsibility for any injury that may occur.
St. Thomas Aquinas Roman Catholic Separate Regional Division #38 does not provide accidental death, disability, dismemberment or medical expense insurance on behalf of the students participating in this activity.
Page 21 of 87
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
WE HAVE READ THE ABOVE. WE UNDERSTAND THAT BY PARTICIPATING IN THE ACTIVITY DESCRIBED ABOVE, WE ARE ASSUMING THE RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH DOING SO.
Signature of Student: ______Date: ______
Signature of Parent/Guardian:______Date: ______
PERMISSION
I give ______permission to participate in the grade 9 Victoria trip to be held from Thursday May 18th , 2016 to Sunday May 21st , 2017.
Signature of Parent/Guardian:______Date: ______
RELEASE and WAIVER
THIS FORM MUST BE READ AND SIGNED BY ALL STUDENTS WHO WISH TO PARTICIPATE IN THE GRADE 9 TRIP TO VICTORIA, BC: Thursday May 18th , 2017 to Sunday May 21st , 2017.
ELEMENTS OF RISK: Educational activity programs present various elements of risk. Accidents resulting from such activities may occur and cause injury. The risk associated with this grade 9 trip MUST be assumed by the participant.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT:
I, ______, understand and accept the above and provide the St. Thomas Aquinas Roman Catholic Separate Regional Division #38 with the following waiver of liability and RELEASE AND INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT.
I, ______, hereby release the St. Thomas Aquinas Roman Catholic Separate Regional Division #38 and its’ staff and agents from any and all liability for any injury sustained by me, regardless of how caused, resulting from my participation in the grade 9 trip arranged through Christ the King Junior senior High School. I further agree to indemnify and save harmless the St. Thomas Aquinas Roman Catholic Separate Regional Division #38 and its’ staff and agents from any and all suits, demands, torts, and actions of any kind which may be brought against its’ staff or agents for which they may become liable by reason of any injury, loss, damage or death resulting from, or occasioned to, or suffered by any person or any property, by reason of any act, neglect or default of mine.
Signature of Student: ______Date: ______
Page 22 of 87
MEDICAL CONDITIONS
The following is a list of medical conditions (including allergies, conditions requiring medication, etc.) and a list of medication that my child must take and any special instructions regarding medication storage and administration.
Medical Conditions Medications Instructions
Alberta Health Care # (for student) ______
If my child requires medical attention, I authorize the supervisors to seek necessary medical treatment/intervention in the event of an emergency.
Parent name ______Signature ______(Please print) Date ______
Phone: ______
Emergency Contact ______Phone:______
Page 23 of 87 Page 24 of 87
FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING
August 31, 2016
NOTES Members present: Dan Chailifoux (Trustee) Sandra Bannard (Trustee) (via teleconferencing) Karen Richert (Trustee) Edward Latka (Administration)
1. Mr. Latka call the meeting to order at 13:40 hours 2. Trustee Richert led in prayer 3. No Additions to the Agenda 4. Review of Terms of Reference a. Mr. Latka reviewed the General Terms for all Board Committees, as well as the specific terms of reference for the Finance Committee.
5. Naming of Committee Chair a. Trustee Bannard was named Committee Chair for the 2016-2017 term 6. Committee Work Plan a. Mr. Latka presented a work plan to the committee to establish future meeting dates. • Trustee Bannard requested that the work plan be aligned with the Board work plan. Mr. Latka responded that it had been reviewed to coincide with Regular Board Meetings. • Discussion within the Committee identified the need to inform other Trustees of the timelines that the Finance Committee had to ensure that the Committee had sufficient time to consider budgetary items, and the Board had sufficient time to debate and consider Committee recommendations. Especially to consider the timing of the Board’s retreat and review of the allocations for the following budget year. • The Committee discussed the need for an additional meeting of the Board, should debate need to continue beyond the set November 24th meeting date to review the Audited Financial Statements (AFS) and Revised 2016-2017 Budget. The committee discussed November 29th as an additional date.
Page 25 of 87
• The Committee discussed the need for the 3 year Education Plan to be consistent within those 3 years, and making minor adjustments to budgetary items, to allow a full evaluation of outcomes, relative to the resource inputs. • The Committee also discussed the need for Board discussion on fee consultation. • Tentatively the Committee has established the following meeting schedule: 1. November 14 2016, 10:00 hours 2. March 6 2017, 10:00 hours 3. April 3 2017, 10:00 hours ( 4. May 15 2017, 10:00 hours
7. Next meeting – November 14 2016, 10:00 hours
Page 26 of 87
Policy Committee Report
Policy review has been divided between the committee members and the first ones we will review are as follows: Policy 1 Divisional Foundation Statements Policy 8 Committees of the Board Policy 10 Policy Making Policy 12 Role of the Superintendent Policy 18 School Fundraising Policy 21 Vaccinations
Please submit your input on these policies in the next few weeks as our meeting is October 24 and we value your input.
Submitted by Trustee Kathol
Page 27 of 87 Page 28 of 87 September 9, 2016 Board of Directors’ Meeting No. 365
Proposed 2017 ACSTA Operating Budget
The Board of Directors accepted the proposed 2017 ACSTA Operating Budget for presentation to the 2016 Annual General Meeting.
ACSTA Board of Directors’ Policy Handbook Revision
The Board of Directors accepted the proposed Policy Handbook revisions suggested by the Governance Committee.
2016-2019 ACSTA Strategic Plan
The Board of Directors approved a Strategic Plan for 2016-2019.
2016 ACSTA AGM & Convention
In recognition of its 50th Anniversary this year, ACSTA is planning a Gala Banquet in conjunction with the AGM & Convention. The Planning Committee has planned a memorable occasion and is looking for sponsorship to assist with the costs. Directors were asked to provide ACSTA with names of organizations or businesses that they work closely with, who may be willing to make a one-time donation.
A silent auction to support the Toonies for Tuition program and Development and Peace is being held during the Awards Banquet on November 19th. Boards are encouraged to participate by donating an auction item. The donation form can be found at http://www.acsta.ab.ca/content/file/Silent_Auction_Donation_Form_-_fill.pdf
ACSTA will be recognizing trustees and honourary life members who have passed away during the last school year at the Convention. We require the assistance of boards to obtain this information. The In Memoriam form can be found at http://www.acsta.ab.ca/content/file/In_Memoriam_Form.pdf
The deadline for submission of resolutions for consideration at the AGM is September 20th.
2017 ACSTA Calendar
The following dates were approved for the 2017 ACSTA Board of Directors’ meetings: February 2-3 (Evaluations and Board meeting) May 24-25 (Strategic Planning and Board meeting) September 14-15 (Faith Formation/Trustee Professional Development) November 17 (prior to Annual General Meeting)
Page 29 of 87 Dates & Places
November 18-20 April 27-30 May 2-5
2016 ACSTA AGM & Convention (The Westin Edmonton) 2017 ACSTA SPICE Retreat (Kananaskis) 2017 ACSTA Blueprints Retreat (Kananaskis)
Also,
We encourage you to look at the summer 2016 edition of the Catholic Dimension on the ACSTA website.
The Catholic Dimension is a newspaper published twice annually by the Alberta Catholic School Trustees' Association. It highlights current issues in Catholic education in Alberta, the Northwest Territories and Yukon, as well as events in our Catholic schools. Highlights of this issue include: • ACSTA Celebrates its 50th Anniversary • Update from Executive Director • Update from President • Legally Speaking – A Minister and his Guidelines • STAR Catholic develops everyday prayer book for students, staff and families • Living Waters CSRD No. 42 - Our Journey of Faith, Hope and Renewal • Edmonton Catholic Schools - Father Michael 'Catfish' Mireau • SPICE and Blueprints 2016 Please feel free to share Catholic Dimension with everyone in your community.
Page 30 of 87 Board Chair Report September 21
BOARD MEETING 1. Prepared September Agenda with Vice-Chair 2. Finalized Faith PD plan
EX-OFFICIO None
SPOKESPERSON 1. Interview with Lacombe Express (Ward Review, Value Scoping) 2. Interview with Leduc Rep (Ward Review)
REPRESENTATION 1. STAR Reflection Day
ADVOCACY None
CHAIR/SUPERINTENDENT 1. Orientation
Page 31 of 87 Page 32 of 87
SUPERINTENDENT REPORT: Troy Davies September 21, 2016
1. FAITH LEADERSHIP: Presented Superintendent’s Address at Reflection Day on theme of “Light” Presented breakout session for Faithaganza on topic of the Eucharist Attended funeral for divisional deacon’s spouse Arranged for opening Mass for first administrators’ meeting Attended Mass with Leduc and Beaumont school staffs on PD Day
2. EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP:
Workshopped CASS – ATLE Leveraging System Technology materials Shared with administrators the CASS Framework for School System Success Several orientation meetings with the new Director of Instruction & Staff Development and the new Speech-Language Pathologist Presented the School Leadership Teams (SLT) model at the Admin Meeting Facilitated the annual COLT Retreat Participated in the first EXCEL organizational meeting Facilitated a meeting of the three school leads involved with the Networked Innovation Communities K-9 math project Facilitated the Inclusive Education Facilitators & Counsellors Meeting
3. FISCAL MANAGEMENT:
Met with the Secretary-Treasurer on several occasions
4. PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT:
Presented at New Teacher Mentorship program on the Catholicity Clause and divisional structure and operations Met with counsellors about piloting the staff wellness initiative Communications to school principals regarding teacher evaluation processes Hiring additional teachers resulting from student growth Approved numerous substitute teachers and casual staff
5. SUPERINTENDENT/BOARD RELATIONS:
Arranged for trustee tour of Father Leduc construction site
Page 33 of 87 Prepared materials and documentation for annual Superintendent evaluation Met with Board chair to discuss several matters Liaised with ASBA consultant regarding planning of Ward Review Liaised with Local regarding organization of first TBAC meeting
6. THREE-YEAR PLANNING AND REPORTING:
Devised new and updated look for layout for 3YEP/AERR annual report
7. ORGANIZATIONAL MANAGEMENT:
Did preparatory work and planning for Father Lacombe value scoping Held opening admin meeting for the year Held opening Central Office staff meeting for the year Met regarding communications and PD training plan for Maplewood SIS Due to increased enrolment, assisted with conversion of a computer lab to a regular classroom at Sacred Heart
8. COMMUNICATIONS AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS:
Approved template for staff pictorial directory Met with Catholic Social Services regarding Day of Mercy and partnerships Planned and designed template for Catholic Education Sunday brochure Wrote letter to all junior and senior high parents regarding STAR LIGHT Day
9. LEADERSHIP PRACTICES:
Enrolled in tech & education 5-course program at the University of Wisconsin Attended CCSSA meeting in Calgary Assisted 2 other divisions with HR-related matters
10. STUDENT WELFARE:
Liaised with Wildrose School Division VTRA protocol development Drafted the Concussions administrative procedure
~ Italicized items indicate select highlights of work delegated to, and completed by, Assistant Superintendents~
Page 34 of 87
Secretary-Treasurer Report September 21, 2016
Supervisor Responsibilities Reviewed professional goals with direct reports Monthly status update meetings with Financial, Transportation and Facility Services Quarterly Staff Meeting Circulate CO Staff Meeting Survey
Business Operations Management Reviewed status of Maplewood (student information system) implementation with Administrators Participated in Maplewood next steps meeting
Financial and Risk Management Reviewed MyBudgetFile tool with new principal (Holy Trinity) Responded to various budget queries consistent with start-up of a new school year Reviewed prior year CEU’s for anomalies and action by school OP’s Issued and received approval for 2012-13 Final Modular Costs
Negotiations No work at this time
FOIP Coordination Advised school on the need for FOIP release (attached to the registration form) on an annual basis
Facilities Management Reviewed status of capital projects, IMR projects and Central Office work Advised that Central Office Parking would be further delayed until late September while further excavation occurs Gathered school principal considerations related to school sites as background for future planning Gathered background documents related to local planning for the Value Scoping exercise for Father Lacombe In receipt of draft Blanket Easement agreement from the Town of Beaumont for review
Student Transportation Management Reviewed transportation needs for Father Leduc/Notre Dame Responded to parental concerns
Page 35 of 87
Executive Secretary of the Board Reviewed correspondence on ALARIE wind-up and disposition of fund Reviewed and advised superintendent’s office on handling Board agenda items arising from In-camera discussions. Issued draft contract for educational consultant (cosmetology)
Other Duties Participated in Finance Committee meeting Circulated draft notes from Finance Committee meeting to members, and final submission to the Board as their report.
Other Activities ASBOA meetings
Page 36 of 87 Page 37 of 87 Page 38 of 87 STANDING COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATIVE OFFICES Understanding the Child and Youth Advocate Act
DISCUSSION GUIDE
Page 39 of 87 THE STANDING COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATIVE OFFICES
David Shepherd (Chair) MLA, Edmonton-Centre (ND) Brian Malkinson (Deputy Chair) MLA, Calgary-Currie (ND) Nathan Cooper MLA, Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills (W) Mike Ellis MLA, Calgary-West (PC) Trevor Horne MLA, Spruce Grove-St. Albert (ND) Debbie Jabbour MLA, Peace River (ND) Jamie Kleinsteuber MLA, Calgary-Northern Hills (ND) Jessica Littlewood MLA, Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville (ND) Jason Nixon MLA, Rimbey-Rocky Mountain House-Sundre (W) Glenn van Dijken MLA, Barrhead-Morinville-Westlock (W) Denise Woollard MLA, Edmonton-Mill Creek (ND)
Page 40 of 87 2 | Child and Youth Advocate Act Review | Discussion Guide | 2016 TABLE OF CONTENTS What is being discussed? 4 How can you provide feedback to the Committee? 5 What should you consider in your submission? 6 What is the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate (OCYA)? 7 What does the Child and Youth Advocate Act say? 8 What are the age limits of those who receive services under the Act? 9 Does the Act permit the OCYA to provide appropriate services to children and youth? 10 What does the Act permit the Advocate to do? 11 What powers does the Advocate have? 13 How does the Act protect information that is provided by a child? 14 How does the Advocate handle investigations? 15 What happens after an investigation? 16 Do you have other comments? 17 Additional information 18
Page 41 of 87 Child and Youth Advocate Act Review | Discussion Guide | 2016 | 3 WHAT IS BEING DISCUSSED?
The Standing Committee on Legislatives Offices (the Committee) invites you to provide input into its review of the Child and Youth Advocate Act, S.A. 2011, c. C-11.5 (the Act). The duties and functions of the Child and Youth Advocate Act are carried out by the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate. The purpose of this review is to seek out areas of improvement with regard to the legislation that governs the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate.
On June 2, 2016, the Legislative Assembly of Alberta assigned the review of the Child and Youth Advocate Act to the Standing Committee on Legislative Offices in accordance with section 23 of the Act, which says that a committee of the Legislative Assembly must begin a comprehensive review of this Act by July 1, 2016. As part of its review process the Committee is seeking your input.
The role of Alberta’s Child and Youth Advocate is set out in the Child and Youth Advocate Act. The Child and Youth Advocate Act was created to ensure that the rights, interests and viewpoints of the most vulnerable children and youth in provincial government systems are considered in matters that affect them.
This discussion guide is intended to help you consider the Child and Youth Advocate Act and its implications.
If you wish to comment on the Child and Youth Advocate Act, the Standing Committee on Legislative Offices will consider your submission.
Page 42 of 87 4 | Child and Youth Advocate Act Review | Discussion Guide | 2016 HOW CAN YOU PROVIDE FEEDBACK TO THE COMMITTEE?
If you have thoughts on the Child and Youth Advocate Act, the Committee would like to hear from you. There are three ways to provide input to the Committee.
1. Online 2. E-mail 3. Mail 4. Fax You can quickly and easily If you would like to send You can also mail your Fax your submission to provide your feedback a written submission as submission to: 780.644.8621 through the Committee’s an attachment, e-mail online submission form at [email protected] Standing Committee on assembly.ab.ca/committees/ Legislative Offices legislativeoffices c/o Committee Clerk 3rd Floor, 9820 – 107 Street Edmonton, AB T5K 1E7
Please note: The names of members of the public and any third-party personal information that is included in the submission will be redacted before the submission is posted to the Committee’s website.
Submissions from members of the public will be kept confidential upon request.
All submissions must be received by October 14, 2016.
Page 43 of 87 Child and Youth Advocate Act Review | Discussion Guide | 2016 | 5 WHAT SHOULD YOU CONSIDER IN YOUR SUBMISSION?
The Standing Committee on Legislative Offices requests your answers to the following questions. Please read the relevant section of the discussion guide (which follows) for background information about each question.
There are services provided to different age groups under the Act. Are these age 1. limits appropriate?
Does the Act permit the Advocate to provide appropriate services to children and 2. youth? Should the Advocate provide services to children and youth who are receiving government services other than what is currently indicated within the Act? Please explain your answer and provide suggestions, if possible.
What the Advocate can do is made possible by the Child and Youth Advocate Act. In 3. your opinion, should the role of the Advocate stay the same? Is the Advocate able to do enough or should the Advocate be able to do more? Please explain your answer and provide suggestions, if possible.
Does the Act provide the Advocate with sufficient powers to conduct the roles and 4. functions set out in the Act? Are other powers necessary?
Is the information provided by a child to an advocate sufficiently protected? Is the 5. information provided for an investigation sufficiently protected?
What the Advocate can investigate is made possible by the Act. Should the 6. Advocate be able to investigate the same, more, less or different issues? Please explain your answer and provide suggestions.
What the Advocate can report after an investigation is set by the Act. Do these 7. reports contain enough information? Should these reports contain the same, more or different information? Please explain your answer and provide suggestions.
Do you have any other suggestions or comments about the Child and Youth 8. Advocate Act? Please comment on any topic related to the Act not addressed by this discussion guide.
The Standing Committee on Legislative Offices thanks you for your input.
Page 44 of 87 6 | Child and Youth Advocate Act Review | Discussion Guide | 2016 WHAT IS THE OFFICE OF THE CHILD AND YOUTH ADVOCATE (OCYA)?
The Office of the Child and Youth Advocate (OCYA) represents the rights, interests and viewpoints of Alberta’s most vulnerable children and youth. The OCYA provides individual and systemic advocacy for children and youth receiving child intervention (child welfare services) and services under the Protection of Sexually Exploited Children Act (PSECA) or children who are involved in the youth justice system. In addition, the OCYA provides legal representation for young people in child intervention and PSECA matters, investigates systemic issues arising from a serious injury to or death of a child receiving designated services (excluding adoptions) and delivers public education.
The OCYA focuses on • Advocating on behalf of individual children and youth receiving designated services by ensuring that their rights, interests and viewpoints are acknowledged and acted upon • Identifying issues and making recommendations to improve designated services for young people • Conducting investigations into systemic issues arising from the serious injury to or death of a child or youth receiving designated services at the time of the incident or within two years of receiving child intervention services • Providing legal services to children and youth receiving services under the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act or the Protection of Sexually Exploited Children Act • Providing public education on the rights, interests and well-being of children and youth • Conducting research related to improving designated services and • Reporting to Alberta’s Legislature on any matter related to the rights, interests and well-being of children involved with designated services
Page 45 of 87 Child and Youth Advocate Act Review | Discussion Guide | 2016 | 7 WHAT DOES THE CHILD AND YOUTH ADVOCATE ACT SAY?
The Child and Youth Advocate Act sets out what the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate is permitted to do. The Act creates the role, administration and operation of the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate. The Child and Youth Advocate reports to the Assembly as an Officer of the Legislature pursuant to the Child and Youth Advocate Act.
The Act has four parts, as follows.
Part 1 sets out the process for appointing the Child and Youth Advocate, defines the terms of the office and establishes the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate as a part of the public service of Alberta.
Part 2 refers to the Advocate’s role, functions and general powers, including the powers the Advocate may delegate to others, the Advocate’s right to have access to government information and the powers relating to investigations and information that must be included in reports after investigations.
Part 3 includes administrative and general provisions, establishing, for example, that the Advocate is not compellable as a witness and that all information provided by a child to the Advocate in confidence is privileged information and not admissible in evidence in any action without the consent of the child.
Part 4 establishes when the Act comes into force. The Child and Youth Advocate Act was proclaimed in force on April 1, 2012.
Page 46 of 87 8 | Child and Youth Advocate Act Review | Discussion Guide | 2016 WHAT ARE THE AGE LIMITS OF THOSE WHO RECEIVE SERVICES UNDER THE ACT?
There are various age limits in which the Advocate can provide services to a child or youth depending upon the government service the child or youth is receiving and the service they require from the Advocate.
Individual advocacy — under 24 years for youth receiving support and financial care; otherwise, 18 years for other child intervention services. Up to age 27 years for youth in youth justice custody; otherwise, 18 years for other youth justice involvement.
Legal representation — up to 18 years.
Investigative reviews — up to 26 years for youth who received support and financial care up to age 24 years and their death was within two years of receiving this service; otherwise, up to 24 years for youth with intervention involvement. Up to age 27 for youth in youth justice custody.
The Child and Youth Advocate Act defines “child” as (i) a person under the age of 18 years, including a youth, who is receiving or is seeking to receive a designated service, or (ii) a person under the age of 22 years who is receiving support and financial assistance under section 57.3 of the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act, R.S.A. 2000, c. C-12 (s. 1(c)). “Youth” means a child who is 16 years of age or older.
Section 9(4) provides an exception to the definition of “child” by stating that the Advocate cannot appoint a lawyer for a young person who is receiving assistance under section 57.3 of the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act.
1. Are these age limits appropriate?
Page 47 of 87 Child and Youth Advocate Act Review | Discussion Guide | 2016 | 9 DOES THE ACT PERMIT THE OCYA TO PROVIDE APPROPRIATE SERVICES TO CHILDREN AND YOUTH?
The Child and Youth Advocate Act defines “designated service” as (i) a service under the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act, other than an adoption service (under Part 2 of that Act), (ii) a service under the Protection of Sexually Exploited Children Act (PSECA), or (iii) a service provided to children in the youth criminal justice system (s. 1(e)). This means the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate provides individual advocacy to children and youth receiving child intervention and PSECA and youth justice services. The OCYA provides legal representation to children and youth for child intervention and PSECA matters.
2. Does the Act permit the Advocate to provide appropriate services to children and youth? Should the Advocate provide services to children and youth who are receiving other government services?
Page 48 of 87 10 | Child and Youth Advocate Act Review | Discussion Guide | 2016 WHAT DOES THE ACT PERMIT THE ADVOCATE TO DO?
The Child and Youth Advocate Act creates the role, function and general powers of the Advocate.
Section 9(1) states that the role of the Advocate and his office is to represent the rights, interests and viewpoints of children. Section 9(2) enables the Advocate and his office to do their work. The exact wording of section 9(2) is as follows.
In carrying out the role of the Advocate under subsection (1), the Advocate may (a) communicate and visit with a child, or with a guardian or other person who represents a child; (b) on the Advocate’s own initiative, or at the request of a child, assist in appealing or reviewing a decision relating to a designated service*; (c) appoint, or cause to be appointed, lawyers to represent children with respect to any matter or proceeding under the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act or the Protection of Sexually Exploited Children Act or any matter or proceeding prescribed by regulation†; (d) if, in the opinion of the Advocate, the investigation is warranted or in the public interest, investigate systemic issues arising from (i) a serious injury to a child who at the time of the injury was receiving a designated service under the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act, other than an adoptive service, (ii) a serious injury to or the death of a child who at the time of the injury or death was receiving a designated service under the Protection of Sexually Exploited Children Act or a service provided to children in the youth criminal justice system ‡, (iii) the death of a child who at the time of the death was receiving a designated service under the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act, other than an adoptive service, or (iv) the death of a child who at any time during the 2-year period immediately preceding the death received a designated service under the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act, other than an adoptive service;
* Section 9(3) provides that “[s]ubsection (2)(b) does not apply in respect of a designated service referred to in section 1(e)(iii)” of the Act — that is a designated service provided to youth in the criminal justice system. † Section 9(4) provides that “[s]ubsection (2)(c) does not apply in respect of a child referred to in section 1(c)(ii)” — that is a person under 22 years of age who is receiving support and financial assistance under section 57.3 of the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act. ‡ Section 9(5) provides that “[s]ubsection (2)(d)(ii) does not apply in respect of a designated service referred to in section 1(e)(iii)” — that is youth in the criminal justice system — “unless, at the time of the serious injury or death of the child, the child was in open or secure custody.”
Page 49 of 87 Child and Youth Advocate Act Review | Discussion Guide | 2016 | 11 (e) participate in processes in which decisions are made about children; (f) promote the rights, interests and well-being of children through public education; (g) undertake or collaborate in research related to improving designated services or addressing the needs of children receiving those services; (h) provide information and advice to the Government with respect to any matter relating to the rights, interests and well-being of children; (i) perform any other function prescribed in the regulations.*
3. What the Advocate can do is made possible by the Child and Youth Advocate Act. In your opinion, should the role of the Advocate stay the same? Is the Advocate able to do enough, or should the Advocate be able to do more? Please discuss your answer and provide suggestions, if possible.
* There are currently no other functions prescribed in the regulations.
Page 50 of 87 12 | Child and Youth Advocate Act Review | Discussion Guide | 2016 WHAT POWERS DOES THE ADVOCATE HAVE?
The powers of the Child and Youth Advocate are set out in the Act as follows.
Section 8(1): may set up the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate.
Section 10: may delegate to others most of the powers, duties and functions of the Advocate under the Act.
Section 13: has broad access to government information that may be used for advocacy and investigations.
Section 14: has specific powers relating to investigation, including the powers, privileges and immunities of a commissioner under the Public Inquiries Act.
4. Does the Act provide the Advocate with sufficient powers to conduct the roles and functions as stated in the Act? Are other powers necessary?
Page 51 of 87 Child and Youth Advocate Act Review | Discussion Guide | 2016 | 13 HOW DOES THE ACT PROTECT INFORMATION THAT IS PROVIDED BY A CHILD?
The Act protects information that is provided by a child or by someone during an investigation.
Section 18: all information provided during an investigation is privileged (kept confidential).
Section 20: information provided by a child to the Advocate in confidence is privileged. An advocate must not be compelled to give evidence in a legal action.
5. Is the information provided by a child to an advocate sufficiently protected? Is the information provided for an investigation sufficiently protected?
Page 52 of 87 14 | Child and Youth Advocate Act Review | Discussion Guide | 2016 HOW DOES THE ADVOCATE HANDLE INVESTIGATIONS?
The circumstances in which the Advocate can begin an investigation are set out in the Act.
As discussed above, section 9(2)(d) of the Act enables the Advocate to launch an investigation. If, in the opinion of the Advocate, an investigation is warranted or in the public interest, the Advocate may investigate systemic issues arising from • a serious injury to or the death of a child who at the time of the injury or death was receiving a designated service,* • the death of a child who at the time of the death was receiving a designated service, or • the death of a child who at any time during the 2-year period immediately preceding the death received a designated service (s. 9(2)(d). Powers Relating to Investigations The Act sets the powers of the Advocate when conducting an investigation. During an investigation the Advocate has all the powers, privileges and immunities of a commissioner under the Public Inquiries Act, R.S.A. 2000, c. P-39 (s. 14). This includes the ability to engage the services of experts to assist in an investigation and the ability to summon any person as a witness and require them to give evidence under oath about the matter being investigated.
6. What the Advocate can investigate is made possible by the Act. Should the Advocate be able to investigate the same, more, less or different issues? Do you agree with how the Act enables the Advocate to conduct investigations? Please discuss your answer and provide suggestions.
* Section 9(5) of the CYAA provides that “[s]ubsection (2)(d)(ii) does not apply in respect of a designated service referred to in section 1(e)(iii)” — that is youth in the criminal justice system — “unless, at the time of the serious injury or death of the child, the child was in open or secure custody.”
Page 53 of 87 Child and Youth Advocate Act Review | Discussion Guide | 2016 | 15 WHAT HAPPENS AFTER AN INVESTIGATION?
The Act sets out the process of reporting following the completion of an investigation.
After completing an investigation, the Advocate must make a report containing recommendations for any public body or other person the Advocate considers appropriate. The report may also address any other matters the Advocate considers appropriate (ss. 15(1)(a) and (b)).
The report cannot contain any findings of legal responsibility or any conclusions of law (s. 15(2)).
A report must not disclose the name of or any identifying information about the child to whom the investigation relates or a parent or guardian of the child (s. 15(3)).
The Advocate must provide a copy of the report to the public body that is directly or indirectly the subject of investigation and to the public (ss. 15(4) and (5)).
7. What the Advocate can report after an investigation is set by the Act. Do these reports contain enough information? Should these reports contain the same, more or different information? Please discuss your answer and provide suggestions.
Page 54 of 87 16 | Child and Youth Advocate Act Review | Discussion Guide | 2016 DO YOU HAVE OTHER COMMENTS?
8. Do you have any other suggestions or comments about the Child and Youth Advocate Act? Please comment on any topic related to the Act not addressed by this discussion guide.
Page 55 of 87 Child and Youth Advocate Act Review | Discussion Guide | 2016 | 17 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The Office of the Child and Youth Advocate provides advocacy for young people who are receiving (or want to receive) child intervention services or who are involved with the youth criminal justice system. If you are a young person and have questions about your rights, need legal help, or need to speak out, you can call toll-free at 800.661.3446 or e-mail [email protected].
Individuals and organizations seeking more information about the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate can visit ocya.alberta.ca.
Page 56 of 87 18 | Child and Youth Advocate Act Review | Discussion Guide | 2016 Pre-School to Kindergarten Retention 2016
June 2016 = the number of children in the 4 year old preschool program as of June 2016
September 2016 = the number of children included in the June 2016 preschool count who enrolled in the Kindergarten class for the new school year
Retention Rate = the percentage of students who were in our 4 year old program who then enrolled in our Kindergarten program
Total K Count = the total number of Kindergarten students at the school as of September 14, 2016
% of K…preschoolers = Percentage of the Kindergarten class made up of students who were in the preschool the year before
School June 2016 September 2016 Retention Rate Total K % of K made Count up of Previous preschoolers Notre Dame 38 21 55% 69 30%* St. Benedict 48 28 58% 52 54% St. Anthony 30 26 87% 38 68% St. Augustine 33 25 76% 49 51% St. Andre n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Sacred Heart n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Fr. Leduc n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Fr. Lacombe n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Division Totals
June 2016: 149 September 2016: 100 Retention Rate: 67% % of K made up of previous preschoolers: 48%
Summary Statement: Less than ½ of our Kindergarten enrollment in schools with pre-schools is made up of students who were enrolled in their preschool the year before.
*Notre Dame did lose 8 (21%) of their preschool students to Fr. Leduc’s Kindergarten so they were not lost to STAR.
Page 57 of 87 Page 58 of 87 Junior High Complimentary Course Divisional Offerings as of June 2016
As per AP 217 Locally Developed/Acquired Programs and Courses, the following applies to Locally Developed/Acquired and Authorized Junior High School Complimentary Courses:
11.1 The Division shall keep a written description of each locally developed/acquired and authorized junior high school complimentary course on file.
11.2 The Division shall reauthorize their locally developed/acquired courses or programs every three years.
11.3 Schools shall offer two provincially authorized complementary courses except where instruction in a language other than English is offered, then only one provincially authorized complimentary course is required. Religious studies are deemed to be provincially authorized.
Grade 7
Animation Art/Outdoor Education (Semestered; English/F.I) Career Studies Computer Literacy Construction Crochet Debate Drama Film Studies Fine Arts Food Studies Foods and Fashion Girl Power Graphic Novel Design Guitar Home Economics Instrumental Music Leadership/Drama Novel Studies Outdoor Education Outdoor Wildlife Photography Recreational Sports Recreational Leadership/Media Studies Robotics Rocketry Second Languages (French, Spanish, Tagalog)
Page 59 of 87 Sewing Social Interaction and Strategic Development, LinkAges Strategy and Problem Solving Study Skills/Social Skills/Theology of the Body Stylin’ Tech Ed Woodworking
Grade 8
Animation Art/Outdoor Education (Semestered; English/F.I) Career Studies Computer Literacy Construction Crochet Debate Drama Film Studies Fine Arts Food Studies Foods and Fashion Girl Power Graphic Novel Design Guitar Home Economics Instrumental Music Leadership/Drama Novel Studies Outdoor Education Outdoor Wildlife Photography Recreational Sports Recreational Leadership/Media Studies Robotics Sewing Strategy and Problem Solving Study Skills/Social Skills/Theology of the Body Stylin’ Tech Ed Woodworking
Page 60 of 87 Grade 9
Animation Computer Literacy Construction CTF Crochet Drama Fabrication Fashion Film Studies Fine Arts Food Studies Girl Power Graphic Novel Design Guitar Home Economics Novel Studies Outdoor Education Photography Photography/Yearbook Recreational Sports Robotics Sewing Tech Ed
Page 61 of 87 Page 62 of 87 School Council Annual Report
For the 2015/2016 School Year
Meetings were held September 15, 2015, October 19, 2015, November 19, 2015, January 18, 2016, February 22, 2016, March 14, 2016, April 18, 2016, May 16, 2016, June 15, 2016 for a total of 9 meetings they had an average attendance of 12 people in attendance.
Or council was grateful enough to also have on the council our school principal Jamie McIssac and Trish Molzan as well as our class room representative Roxanne Lemermeyer. We also had a CWL rep and our two boards of trustees Susan Kathol and Sandra Bannard.
Our elections were done just as they have been in the past using the general guidelines on how to elect a council. And out By-laws were last reviewed in January 2014.
Executive Committee Members were as follows
Chair – Amber Ward
Vice Chair – Kate Newton
Secretary – Andrea Patterson
Treasure – Lonnie Hartley
Overview of the year
This year we had two successful fundraisers this year one was discount cards that all community members could purchase and then receive discounts at the listed business in our community. We also held our annual Winter Wonderland which is an event for our community to come out for some great family fun it also had a bake sale, canteen and silent auction that we raised our funds from. We helped the school at our annual St. Anthony Day pot luck BBQ that is always well attended and so much fun for our school community. We also helped out our Shark Park Committee in trying to raise funds for our new park that is really needed at our school. We also brought t a educational show to the school for all students to enjoy.We welcomed the Alberta Opera with their production of “The Tin Solider”. We had a very busy and successful year and hope it continues.
Page 63 of 87 Page 64 of 87 St. Anthony School Council Annual Treasurer Report
Balance forward September 1, 2015 $1,844.99
Income: Donations $0.00 Interest $0.06 Winter Wonderland $10,745.30 Playground $0.00 Student Programs $0.00 Discount Cards $9,940.00
Total Income $20,685.36 $22,530.35
Total Assets $22,530.35
Expenses: Winter Wonderland $1,226.48 Discount Cards $4,993.79 Special Events $0.00 Advertising & Office Supplies $372.21 Bank Fees $25.50 Babysitting & Seminars $50 Student Programs $0.00 Council Gifts $1,007.40 Playground $2,500.00 Donations $2,250.00
Total Expenses $12,425.38 -$12,425.38 Balance $10,104.97
Investment Account = $3,479.93 Balance as at August 30, 2013 Total Cash + Investments = $13,584.90
Page 65 of 87 Page 66 of 87 Sacred Heart School Council 2015/2016 Year End Report
September, 2015 - parent volunteer committee was started up Nancy Kircher to head it up - minutes from last meeting were changed to represent the exact amount of money spent on musical instruments requested by Mr. Sweet
October, 2015 -
November, 2015 - DSF fundraiser made $5021.05 - $1000 went to volleyball standards - $150 went to Boomwhackers - $800 went for tables in “the way”
December, 2015 - No meeting
January 2016 - Money in School Council account $3487.77 - Shrove Tuesday discussed - March meeting date needs to be changed to PTI’s - Motion passed to spend up to $25 per teacher to spend at Teachers convention - Motion passed to donate $250 to Knights of Columbus for making pancakes for Shrove Tues
February, 2016 - Mr.Sweet decided against the purchase of floor monitors and instead has requested that he buy 2 mics for $543.50 and 2 Congas for $482.99= $1026.89 with a remaining $61.11 left for School Council. - Social committee has decided to put on free family movie night movie to be approved by Mrs. Sand
March, 2016 - Knights of Columbus check was cashed. - Terrie and Melissa going to ASCA conference in April. - Nancy given a budget of $600 for teacher appreciation week. - Discussion of having babysitters at school council meetings. Ask Jr. high students and they will be given a $10 gift card for each meeting they attend. - School council has $2866.88 in account.
April, 2016 - ASCA conference was discussed - Melissa Donaldson was reimbursed $98 for pizza for the teachers on PTI night
May, 2016
Page 67 of 87 - School council has $1228.17 in account. - AGM date was discussed
June, 2016 Regular Meeting - Movie night was a huge success movie chosen was The Never ending Story
June AGM, 2016 - School council operating procedures are not on school web site, Tara McBride looking into it - Elections: All positions available. All executive is stepping down. - Chair Melissa Tomkinson stepped down- Nancy Kircher was nominated and she accepted. 3 calls and Nancy is new chair - Vice Chair Mary Lynn Kary stepped down. Angela Curin nominated and accepted. 3 calls and Angela is new vice chair. - Secretary Nancy Kircher stepped down. Sarah Bailer was nominated and accepted. 3 calls and Sarah in new secretary. - Treasurer Terrie Dargis is stepping down. Melissa Donaldson was nominated and accepted. 3 calls and Melissa is new treasurer.
Page 68 of 87
Notre Dame School Council Year 2015-2016 Report
Chairperson: Dawn Miller Vice Chairperson: Corinne Keller Secretary: Haley Bristowe Members at Large: Paul McLaughlin, Nicole Russell, Carmen Warner, Sherri Willie. Administration representative: Mr. Luigi Gatti Staff/Admin. representative: Mrs. Tara Malloy Trustee representative: Michelle Lamar & Karen Richert
2015/2016 STAR yearend report: Dawn Miller
Page 69 of 87 Notre Dame School Council (NDSC) hosted meetings on a regular monthly basis September through June for a total of ten (10) meetings overall. The first meetings of the year, being the AGM in September, seven (7) were regular meetings; one (1) was an ASCA presentation evening and two (2) dinner meetings.
Elections were held at the September 2015 AGM. Again, there were a core group of people that participated in School Council for the 2015/2016 school year. The Council has had numerous new people join the Council meetings on a regular basis. Some of these people were attending in preparation for creating a School Council for Father Leduc.
Notre Dame School Council has found an increase in attendance due to factors agreed upon by the Council in hopes of raising attendance.
The first factor is that Notre Dame School Council sent out the agenda and all applicable information for that meeting at least 7 days prior to the meeting to the entire parent population at the school along with key community members. This information package was followed up by a “Meeting Highlights” 7 days after the Council meeting.
The second factor is that Notre Dame School Council, along with Parents At Notre Dame Association decided to provide child minding for each meeting, paid for by PANDA.
A third factor that may have contributed to a more consistent attendance is that the Council has changed its format at the meeting. The Agenda is laid out so that all reporting information is provided in written form prior the actual meeting. This has allowed for members to review the information and be able to be knowledgeable about the information and so that members have an opportunity to ask questions on that information. This has drastically cut down the time it takes to disperse important information. Another addition to the agenda this year is the creation of “Discussion items”. This section allows for topics of interest and importance to be highlighted and for the Council to have meaningful discussions regarding issues that affect the education system both provincially and locally.
Notre Dame School Council has worked hard this year to inform all parents at the school of upcoming educational issues, information related to education and has started creating opportunities for parents to be involved within the school along with education topics. Again, as last year, the Notre Dame School Council having a better understanding of the impact a school council and the parents voices on that Council can have within its community should continue to be a focus.
As this was the first year that the School Council and the Fundraising Society, PANDA has had two separate executive consisting of different executive members, a strong focus on communication, working together and figuring out which group was to be responsible for which activities was diligently worked throughout the school year.
Page 70 of 87 The following is a brief overview of Notre Dame School Council year’s work:
September 2015 – Elections were held for Notre Dame School Council. The executive were elected as listed above. It was realized the Notre Dame School Council does not have a mission and/or vision statement, nor does it have any by-laws and/or operating procedures. It was agreed that this will be a focus for the upcoming year.
October 2015- There was no official meeting held in October. Instead, the Council participated in 2/3 workshops presented by the Alberta School Council Association. The first workshop was about meeting management. This workshop was attended by both the School Council and PANDA members. The second and third workshops were: Purpose of a School Council and Purpose of a Fundraising Society respectively. The main group split into two accordingly to attend these workshops. The purpose of holding these presentations/workshops by ASCA was to reinforce the idea of learning each groups purpose in order to work together effectively. It should be noted that an invitation went out to other schools within the district. From the invitation, 2 chairpersons from other STAR schools attended these workshops alongside the Notre Dame members. A letter was sent to the local MLA, Shaye Anderson, to attend a School Council meeting at Notre Dame School. This letter/invitation was not responded to via written response but rather verbally with the Notre Dame School Council Chairperson. The Notre Dame School Council Chairperson was invited and attended the first phase of the STAR mission/vision consultation day in Wetaskiwin.
November 2015 As Notre Dame School Council is a registered member of the ASCA Parent Engagement Task Force, there was a discussion on the topic of school fee’s and what parents understand about them as asked by ASCA. The responses to these questions are attached at the end of this report labelled as”1”. There was an in-depth discussion on the difference of parents being involved vs. engaged. From this discussion, questions were created to ask parents during the parent teacher interviews for better understanding of what parents are thinking and how they are involved. This process is based on the School Councils commitment made in the previous year to have more meaningful parental engagement within the school. The information surrounding the discussion about engagement and the questions asked of the parents during Parent/Teacher interviews along with the results are attached at the end of the report and are labelled as “2” and “3” respectively. A Lice Busters committee was created for the purpose of performing lice checks on the children at Notre Dame.
December 2015 The council was able to review and ask questions about the 3 year education plan and provide feedback; A governance committee was struck to review the current school council by-laws and its charter. It was noted that these documents are out of date and that there are other documents of importance that seem to be missing or non-existent. It was discussed and agreed upon that more parental engagement is needed and that the council will continue on with and improve the questions put forth to parents during the parent teacher interviews. The council was able to provide feedback on the qualities and attributes they would like to see for a principal at Notre Dame and Father Leduc schools. The Notre Dame School Council Chairperson was able to attend the French Immersion information evening at Notre Dame and was able to ask how a French Immersion program coming into a school for the first time affects and/or provide opportunities for the school already established School Council.
January 2016 The Lice busters committee performed its first head lice check Dawn Miller, Chairperson; Paul McLaughlin, Member at Large; and Luigi Gatti, Principal all attended the annual Council of Councils meeting at the STAR board office. Page 71 of 87 The NDSC Chairperson attended the second phase of the Mission, Vision STAR consultation.
February 2016 A conversation surrounding the LGQTB guidelines took place. The Council had 3 main concerns regarding the topic. The first concern was how will the School Board communicate with parents if there is an issue within a school? The second concern was how is STAR going to be proactive in response/regards to this issue in general? And thirdly, what is STAR’s plan going forward, will there be policy review and/or change and will parents be informed or consulted or both. The NDSC Chairperson attended the 3 yr. planning day along with the Notre Dame Principal, Mr. Gatti. Took a look at the information provided to parents on the ND website in regards to school councils Welcomed the announcement of the new principal for Notre Dame for the 2016/2017 year. A letter was sent to the new principal on behalf of the Notre Dame School Council.
March 2016 The NDSC reviewed the ASCA resolutions and made decisions on how to vote for each resolution. The Notre Dame School Council hosted the Zones of regulations workshop for parents. This workshop was well received and it is hoped that these “workshop evenings” will continue in the future and that more advance advertising will occur to allow for higher attendance. From a conversation that took place at the Council of Councils meeting, Notre Dame School Council was able to review what was currently on the website both locally and for the district. The Council worked on and created information for the Notre Dame School website in regards to the School Council. The information was accepted by the school council by motion and forwarded onto the vice-principal for implementation. This document is attached for your information and is labelled as “4” at the end of this report. TQS/SLS
April 2016 Matt Miller attended the ASCA Annual General Meeting as the Notre Dame School Council parent representative. Started working on a Mission & Vision statement for the Notre Dame School Council. . The School Council will continue to work on this. The Council is waiting for the new STAR mission/vision statements so that they can stay “in-line” with the districts statements. A workshop presented by ASCA has been booked for October 2016. The Council will be working on creating their by-laws/operating procedures during this workshop. Father Leduc School Council has already been invited to attend this workshop to get them started with their documents. The Lice Busters committee performed another head lice check. The School Council worked with PANDA to create and host the annual family dance. The NDSC Chairperson, Dawn Miller was elected as Vice-President for the Alberta School Council Association.
May 2016 A discussion around transportation, school fees and carbon levy/tax took place. The members at the May School Council meeting felt that there is potential pressure on parents of extra fees in regards to education may occur. Specifically, transportation, field trips, and school fees. The School Council stated that it would like to be kept appraised of any situations where costs might go up for parents. Consultation from the School Board regarding transportation and School Fees would be welcomed in the future.
June 2016 This was the last meeting of the year and a dinner was held. The meal was paid for by PANDA. The School Council invited the new principal for Notre Dame School, Mrs. Tellier-Phillips along with the new vice-principal, Colette Chumulka to attend our meeting and celebrate with us. With the announcement of what grades will be writing SLA/PAT, a conversation took place. The parents on the Notre Dame School Council feel that there is a need for standardized testing. The Council members also feel Page 72 of 87 that the Government has a lack of ability to “draw a line in the sand” when it comes to these changes in Education. The Council feels that the government is not doing the best they could of explaining why they have delayed the Education Act, why the changes or lack of going forward with SLA’s etc.
Hard work, communication and dedication are what made our council great this past year. Relationship building and communication with stakeholders in our education community has been and will continue to be a focus in the coming year. The second focus for the council this past year and will continue going forward is true parental engagement in regards to their children’s education journey. The NDSC AGM has been scheduled for September 19, 2016 at 6:30 followed by the PANDA AGM.
The School Council looks forward to working with a new principal and new vice principal along with a focus on knowledge learning geared towards the new French immersion program at Notre Dame.
Financials NDSC does not have any financial statements to report. All funds, fundraising and financial dealings within Notre Dame’s parent community are currently handled through PANDA.
As Per:
Dawn Miller Chairperson, Notre Dame School Council 2015/2016
*NDSC= Notre Dame School Council *ASCA= Alberta School Council Association *LRC= Leduc Recreation Center *STAR= St. Thomas Aquinas Roman Catholic School Board *PANDA= Parents At Notre Dame Association
Page 73 of 87 The Notre Dame School Council responses are in red. 1. The Alberta School Councils Association Board of Directors would like to know:
1. Does the proposed draft School Fees Regulation support how school fees are currently established and reported in your district/school? No
2. Is the proposed draft regulation supported by the parents on your school council/Council of School Councils? Absolutley!
All school boards will be required to develop policy and procedures that align with the new regulation on school fees.
3. Has your school council been asked, in the past, to provide input into school board policy while it is under development? No, I am not aware of any school council in our district ever being consulted on this topic. Will your school council contribute their thoughts prior to the drafting of your school board/school’s school fee policy? We may or may not be consulted in the future in a meaningful way, however our School Council will ensure that we voice our opinions to our board with regards to the school fees in the future with hopes of being consulted in the planning process rather than being what our thoughts are after they have been finalized.
2. NDSC discussion on Parental involvement/engagement November 2, 2015
What does the following look like within the school and it’s local community?
Parental Involvement Parental Engagement Helping within the classroom Taking time to understand the going ons Helping/Attending field trips outside the within the school classroom Building relationships with teachers & Volunteering for hotlunch administration Volunteering for one-off events within the Open, free, frequent communication with school teachers & administration Attending one-off events within the school Participating in School Council Attending School Council Meetings Being a part of the decision making process within the school community
Page 74 of 87 What are some of the barriers parents may feel/perceive that inhibit them from being “Involved” or “engaged”?
l Lack of Apathy l parents may feel that they have to FULLY commit to a project or their time l Child Care l Parents may feel that their efforts won’t be appreciated l Not being knowledgeable in what council is and what it does l lack of communication from council, teachers, admin & staff about what council is, when and where l Is their efforts equal to the results l feeling their time commitment availability is not equal to the next volunteer l Length of meetings l process/management of meetings l personality’s, characters already on the council
Based on these observations of our understanding of involvement, engagement and some of the identified barriers, what questions would you ask the parent community in Notre Dame School?
1. Based on the difference between Involvement & Engagement (provide definitions), do you feel that you are Involved, Engaged or neither? 1a. How are you involved or engaged at Notre Dame School?
2. What are some barriers that keep you from being Involved or Engaged in your child’s education journey at Notre Dame School? 2a. How would you suggest that School Council help parents overcome those barriers?
3. What would you suggest School Council doing to facilitate more parental involvement and ultimately better engagement?
4. School Administration question 5. School Board question
3. DO YOU FEEL THAT YOU ARE INVOLVED OR ENGAGED AT NOTRE DAME SCHOOL? IF SO, HOW ARE YOU INVOLVED OR ENGAGED? School Dance Classroom help Hot lunch Volunteering School Council PANDA WHAT DO YOU FEEL ARE SOME BARRIERS TO YOU BEING FURTHER INVOLVED OR ENGAGED IN YOUR CHILDS EDUCATIONAL JOURNEY AT NOTRE DAME SCHOOL? Time Not feeling welcome babysitting Agenda’s not being assigned to upper grades. How am I engaged when I don’t know what is going on, Grade 4, 5 & 6 need agendas!
7 Notre Dame School Council Report 2015/2016 school year September 2016 Page 75 of 87 IF THE NOTRE DAME SCHOOL COUNCIL WERE TO PROVIDE WORKSHOPS FOR PARENTS ABOUT THE EDUCATION SYSTEM BOTH LOCALLY AND PROVINCIALLY, WHAT TOPICS WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT? Internet Safety Cyber Bullying Criteria for qualifying for assisted learning programs ADHD & Positive behavior Emotions workshop general parent knowledge of how to help students DO YOU BELIEVE PARENTS HAVE A GREATER ROLE TO PLAY IN HOW THE EDUCATION SYSTEM, BOTH LOCALLY AND PROVINCIALLY, OPERATES? IF SO, HOW? Say in 3 year plan working with teachers parents are always the first educator of their children
4.
NDSC WEBSITE INFORMATION
It may be suggested that school council have its own tab rather than be under the heading of parents due to the numerous items being requested to be on the school council page.
MAIN PAGE Description: School Councils were legislated as a means for parents and community members to work together with the school, administration and the school board to support and enhance student learning and the educational experience of students. School councils have the opportunity to advise the principal and board on any matter relating to the school and education.
Notre Dame’s School Council is comprised of parents, the principal, a staff member and community members. All parents and guardians at Notre Dame School are considered to be part of the School Council and are always welcome to any of the meetings. If you would like to receive information and meeting information, please click here: enter link to communication permission form here
It is shown that parental involvement with the school results in higher student achievement, better student attendance, positive student attitudes and behaviours and better relationships between student, parent and school.
At every school council meeting, parents have the opportunity to hear reports from the school administration, the school staff, the internal and external committees related to school council as well as a report from the local trustee from the St. Thomas Aquinas Roman Catholic School Board. The school council also often seeks the views and opinions of the parents at Notre Dame through an open discussion forum on numerous topics on education.
Notre dame School Council does not do any fundraising. All fundraising efforts are handled through Notre Dame’s fundraising Society, PANDA. For more information regarding PANDA, please visit: enter link here
8 Notre Dame School Council Report 2015/2016 school year September 2016 Page 76 of 87 MEETINGS Notre Dame School Council meetings are currently held the first Monday of the month at 6:30p.m.except where there are holidays. All parents, guardians and community members are welcome at the meetings. Please click here for the 2015/2016 meeting schedule. Please remember to check here often as there may be new items posted. Agendas (to be posted the week prior to the meeting), Minutes (to be posted the week after they are accepted), Meeting highlights (to be posted the week after a meeting). Also, sub-committee information would be posted here for schedule and applicable minutes.
It would be suggested that it be laid out as follows: the entire 2015/2016 listing be available on the front page with a link to archived items January 4, 2016 Agenda highlights minutes February 1, 2016 Agenda highlights ------March 7, 2016 Agenda ------April 4, 2016 ------May 2, 2016 ------June 6, 2016 ------
Archived items: click here
School council meeting schedule/yearly events Meeting dates Items that appear on agendas annually (i.e. school budget, ASCA conference, results of accountability pillar, elections/AGM Any events linked to or hosted by school council (COSC, 3-yr planning, zones of regulations presentation, cell phone safety presentation
RESOURCES A link to the Alberta School Council Association handbook and contact information A link available for future social media Links to the legislation around school councils Link to the education act (September 2016) &/or current School Act Resource links for parents on education topics A link to the STAR board meeting schedule etc.
CONTACTS & Executive Chairperson: Role Description Contact info Vice-Chair person: Description Secretary: Description Member at large, 1, 2, 3, & 4 Description
School Principal Contact info:
School board: Address, contact info
9 Notre Dame School Council Report 2015/2016 school year September 2016 Page 77 of 87 Local trustee names: Contact info
Any news worthy announcements by the school council
NDSC GOVERNANCE A copy/link of the charter, bylaws, meeting management rules and the operating procedures. The mission and vision of the school council The annual and long term goals of the council A list of sub-committees, their purpose. Meeting rules
10 Notre Dame School Council Report 2015/2016 school year September 2016 Page 78 of 87
POSITIVE PATH FORWARD 2015/16
In the spirit of Catholic education, and the advocacy thereof, the Board developed the following priorities for itself for 2015/16:
Priority Action Role of the Board 1. Foundational Statement - Strategic planning A Mission & Vision review will be - Community/Parish engagement completed by the Board by August 31, 2016.
2. Capital Planning - Political Advocacy Addressing the needs of Father Lacombe - Strategic Planning Catholic School - Accountability to the Addressing the priority needs identified in Community the updated Board Capital Plan - Accountability to the Province
3. Trustee Development - Identify trustee learning needs Public Speaking - Provide resources and budget Supportive Culture - Personal commitment Faith
4. Advocacy for the well-being of the students - Develop advocacy plan and relating to: strategies Faith Community Government
G:\Board\Board Self-Evaluation Process\2014-2015\Positive Path Forward 2015Page-16.Docx 79 of 87 Page 80 of 87 BOARD ANNUAL WORK PLAN ST. THOMAS AQUINAS RCSRD NO. 38 - REVISED JUNE 2016
WHEN WHAT
AUGUST Host and participate in Reflection Day Provide and submit ACSTA/ASBA appropriate award nominations Review financial support for Alberta School Council Association Coordinate a systematic annual plan for meeting with MLA’s Determine ACSTA silent auction item for Toonies for Tuition SEPTEMBER Send out invitations for meeting with Archbishop, local clergy and pastoral associates to address issues to strengthen and coordinate the efforts of home, school and church Conduct the Superintendent Evaluation and approve Superintendent Evaluation Report Conduct Board Self-Evaluation and approve Board Self Evaluation Report (and Positive Path Forward) Determine facilitators for Superintendent’s Evaluation and Board’s Self Evaluation for the following year Review and acknowledge School Council Annual Reports and send reminders if needed OCTOBER Board members may attend Division Learning Day Review Alberta Education Accountability Pillar Summary and provincial standardized test results (Election year) Encourage new trustees to attend the ASBA and ACSTA Trustee Orientations Supper meeting with Archbishop, local clergy and pastoral associates Make preparations for Catholic Education Sunday Review ASBA & ACSTA Policy Regulation & Advocacy changes for Fall General Meeting Finance and Policy Committees meet prior to October 15th NOVEMBER (Election year) Orientate new Board members (Election year) Hold organizational meeting Actively participate in Catholic Education Sunday – Trustee leadership role at local parishes Review and approve Combined Annual Education Results Report/Three Year Education Plan Final Board approval of Audited Financial Statement Review Audit Report and Management Letter to ensure quality indicators and Terms of Engagement have been met Attend ACSTA Fall AGM Attend ASBA Fall AGM Receive Central Office Christmas Closure Days Finalize annual Board Retreat agenda and location DECEMBER Schedule meeting with Sister Boards and Municipalities (Election year) Participate in scheduled school tours Review key evidence of budget expenditures on Board priorities JANUARY Schedules initial Support Staff Terms of Employment Meeting (in applicable years) Approval of Auditors and Terms of Engagement for Renewal (in applicable years) Approve Three Year Education Plan Process and Timelines Initiate process for setting Board priorities for Three Year Education Plan and Long Range Capital Program Plans Set Board initial budget priorities, identify initial budget assumptions, and identify potential risks Host dinner meeting with the Council of School Councils (COSC) FEBRUARY Review Alberta Education Audited Financial Statement Financial Profile Board Retreat – setting of Board priorities Meet with MLAs to advance advocacy plan MARCH Edwin Parr Teacher Nomination Solicit advice from Superintendent and ASBA, then set the mandates for collective agreement negotiation (in applicable years) Approval of Capital Plan Attend ACSTA Spring Conference Review Division fees Review Combined Three Year Education Plan/Annual Education Results Report (3YEP/AERR) compliance letter Start process of Board composition review APRIL Review of draft budget Page 81 of 87
G:\Board\Calendars-Schedules\Annual Work Plan_2016-17.Doc BOARD ANNUAL WORK PLAN ST. THOMAS AQUINAS RCSRD NO. 38 - REVISED JUNE 2016
WHEN WHAT
(Election year) Establish Trustee Orientation Ad Hoc Committee Initial review of draft Ward Calendars for upcoming school year Municipal Taxes Letter (copies for trustees to deliver to their parish) Local Trustee appeals to graduating students to make Toonies for Tuition donation MAY Set and approve Ward Calendars (K-12 and ECS) Schedule meeting with Archbishop and parish teams for October to address and advocate issues to strengthen and coordinate the efforts of home, school and parish Review and set Trustee honorarium Approval of Division budget Review Alberta Education Accountability Pillar Summary and TTFM student engagement results Approve Support Staff Terms of Employment (in applicable years) Prepare a checklist of required positions on committees and needed representatives Issue written reminder to Trustees regarding forthcoming organizational meeting and process Consider ACSTA & ASBA solicitation for policy resolutions Attend Board recognition of staff gala (i.e. Long Service Awards) Make arrangements to have a representative attend the Edwin Parr Banquet Submit copies of Capital Plan to Municipalities JUNE Schedule Council of School Councils (COSC) meeting for following school year Attend ASBA Spring Conference (Non-election years) Hold organizational meeting (Non-election years) Review and edit trustee calendar Review and edit Board Annual Work Plan Develop an annual Trustee Faith Development Plan ON-GOING Monthly Board Meetings (except July) Committee Meetings Consistently and actively communicate the monthly Board Highlights Review monthly Superintendent and Secretary-Treasurer Accountability Reports When applicable, examine position on opting in or out of the Alberta School Foundation (ASFF) and advise the Minister and local municipalities Determine public engagement initiatives Approve Locally Developed Courses if applicable
Page 82 of 87
G:\Board\Calendars-Schedules\Annual Work Plan_2016-17.Doc
St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Schools Board Calendar
Meeting/Event Time Location Date
Board PD/Presentations 9:30 a.m. Board Office September 21, 2016
Regular Board Meeting 10:30 a.m. Board Office September 21, 2016
Ward Review Public Consultation 6:30 p.m. Board Office October 6, 2016
Board Self-Evaluation 9:00 a.m. Board Office October 7, 2016
Ward Review Public Consultation 6:30 p.m. SAINT-ANDRE October 11, 2016
Ward Review Public Consultation 6:30 p.m. St. Augustine October 13, 2016
Ward Review Public Consultation 6:30 p.m. Father Lacombe October 17, 2016
Board PD/Presentations 9:00 a.m. Board Office October 19, 2016
Regular Board Meeting 10:30 a.m. Board Office October 19, 2016
Board PD/Presentations 9:00 a.m. Board Office November 16, 2016
Regular Board Meeting 10:30 a.m. Board Office November 16, 2016
Ward Review Public Consultation 6:30 p.m. Sacred Heart November 16, 2016
Budget Board Meeting 9:00 a.m. Board Office November 24, 2016
Ward Review Public Consultation 6:30 p.m. St. Anthony November 28, 2016
Archbishop/Parish Team Meeting 5:30 p.m. Board Office November 29, 2016
Board PD/Presentations 9:00 a.m. Board Office December 21, 2016
Regular Board Meeting 10:30 a.m. Board Office December 21, 2016
G:\Board\Calendars-Schedules\Calendar.doc Page 83 of 87 Page 84 of 87
St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Schools Action Sheet – September 21, 2016
ISSUE MEETING/DATE ACTION NEEDED ACTION BY STATUS
Faith Plan June 15, 2016 Develop for 2016-2017 Chair, Vice Chair COMPLETE Sacred August 17, 2016 Inform Principal of calendar approval Executive Assistant COMPLETE Heart - ECS Promotional August 17, 2016 Inform division staff by way of letter from Chair and Superintendent, Mgr. COMPLETE Clothing inform principals for coordination of Communications ASCA August 17, 2016 Inform school council presidents of motion re: Executive Assistant COMPLETE Conference membership fees and conference reimbursement by letter, copy to principals Board August 17, 2016 Post as Appendix to Policy 2, send copies to ASBA Executive Assistant COMPLETE Evaluation consultant (Terry G.), test to see if fills in Templates electronically, send Board Chair evaluation results to Chair 24 hours prior MLA August 17, 2016 Arrange Government & Opposition MLA meetings for Mgr. of ONGOING Meetings the Spring and place on agenda: High School Communications, Redesign and Carbon Tax implications Executive Assistant Policy 7 – August 17, 2016 Post revised appendix Executive Assistant COMPLETE Appendix B Ward August 17, 2016 Send notification letter from Chair to MLAs, Mayors, Superintendent, Mgr. COMPLETE Review Reeves, School Council Chairs, Parish Council of Communications Chairs, Priests Presentatio August 17, 2016 Check with principals and directors if proposed dates Executive Assistant COMPLETE ns to Board cause conflict Page 85 of 87 School August 17, 2016 Add to annual meeting agenda: communications Executive Assistant COMPLETE Councils between Board and SACs Reflection August 17, 2016 Send finalized agenda to trustees Asst Supt: Learning COMPLETE Day Services ACSTA August 17, 2016 Make arrangements with ACSTA to donate painting Executive Assistant COMPLETE Silent auction Trustee August 17, 2016 Order sufficient copies of David Well’s, The Grateful Executive Assistant COMPLETE Faith PD Disciple
Page 86 of 87 TRUSTEE EXPENSE CLAIM FORM
Trustee Information
Name:______Ward:______
Trustee Signature:______Date: ______
Expense Information Date Description Taxable Mileage Non Taxable Mileage Per Diem Other Meals (Taxable) (Hotel, Flights, Parking, Registration) KM Amount KM Amount
Totals *All expenses must be supported by original detailed receipts*
Supervisors’ Approval ______
CENTRAL OFFICE USE ONLY:
INVOICE #
ACCOUNT CODE AMOUNT GST This information is collected and distributed in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy (FOIP) Act, Sections 33(1) and 37. Your personal information will be protected as per Part 2 of the Act. For further information concerning the completion of the form please contact your FOIP GROSS TOTAL Coordinator at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Schools, 4906 – 50 Avenue, Leduc, Alberta, T9E 6W9. GST TOTAL Phone (780) 986-2500.
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