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| What to do in times of uncertainty? How can school councils navigate through issues of a political nature? Perhaps the key question is "how can we most effectively support our students in the near future?" But it also involves the issue of balance - how much time and energy to expend on external issues versus how much time to invest within the school? There is no single right answer for any given school, and any given situation, but here are a few thoughts on the issue: 1. Political issues can absorb a great deal of physical and emotional energy. They can leave people drained frustrated and disillusioned. 2. With so much energy expended on wider provincial or board-wide issues, some people find they have little left to give within their local school. 3. Focusing energy within the school - supporting the staff, and supporting the students, is more likely to yield results within the short term, perhaps within this school year or next school year. Click here for ways to focus energy within the school. 4. Seeking frequent community involvement on political issues has the effect of 'crying wolf.' Not every issue requires everyone to engage in letter writing campaigns. Pick battles carefully. 5. If you are faced with a situation where it appears wise to expend some level of energy on wider issues that may be of a political nature, consider asking a few people to focus on addressing it. Ask the balance of your volunteers to stay focused on initiatives within the school, which are likely to have an impact of students immediately or within the year. 6. Become well informed on any issues that need to be addressed. Well informed delegations, with balanced perspectives and advice are most likely to receive favourable attention from a Board. 7. To retain energy within the school, but have a voice in broader issues, consider supporting a well-informed advocacy group such as People for Education. If you have any additional thoughts or tips that could be shared here, please e-mail gkerr@schoolcouncils.net |
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