Terry presented to the group information on the data collected during semester 1 on registration and drop out rates. He indicated with the information registration completion rates based on the beginning of the semester and the end of the semester they could now start to look variables that affect the difference between the two points in time. School suspension rates and reasons were also presented ([both of these are attached). It was noted that the majority of suspensions were related to drugs and alcohol during regular school hours.

It was evident that the new data provides the ability to present information and stimulate discussions so that individuals are more aware of school trends and able to participate in determining the reasons for the trends as well as formulate corrective actions. The information will also provide the ability for ongoing comparisons from semester to semester and year to year. A planning day to get involvement from students to look at what the information is saying and try to identify what needs to be put in place is being planned. Attendance at an evening session at the Friendship center earlier in the week provided educators and parents an invaluable opportunity to share information. The information tonight will be presented April 26 during a planning day involving all the Aboriginal students in the school to get their ideas and input. Issues related to school learning and attendance completion will be looked at and incorporated into the school improvement plans [Sept/03]

Another plan is to facilitate a similar process involving parents and students with an end goal to focus on the question-‘What would you like our schools to look like in the next 5 years?’ this is called a ‘SEARCH CONFERENCE’ A facilitator has been engaged by the name of Liz Roberts to work with the students and parents in this process. Terry suggested that Liz Roberts could come to PAC to assist us in organizing for this session. ACTION: There was general consensus from the group that if Terry could arrange it, he would have Liz at our next meeting.

The staffing process and formula was explained. Student population as of September of 2002 was 975, which resulted in additional staffing complements to decrease class sizes. This has impacted gym, ELA and science classes. Terry noted this would be subject to change based on student populations from year to year.

One secretarial position has been increased from 10-12 months enabling administrative work to be carried on throughout the summer. It is a tremendous gain to provide administrative work throughout the entire year.

Correspondence from a parent regarding athletic awards was shared with PAC and discussed. It was agreed that improvements in communication would benefit everyone and that there was a breakdown from that perspective. It was also Suggested by Terry that an improvement in this matter would be that information on scholarships, eligibility, when to apply etc could be incorporated into student policy books. Action: Terry will respond to the letter.

It was suggested that a donation opportunity/request be incorporated in the student registration fees for next year to provide for a parent council scholarship fund that would be a nominal amount for education for 1-2 student. General consensus of the group was to move ahead with this plan. Action: To develop draft criteria for PAC approval. Deadline required by the end of June/03.

Sandy presented the background of the development of PAC and distributed the constitution. All the information circulated is available online at www.brandonsd.mb.ca/massey in the parent council section. The question was raised as to whether we wish to operate as a Parent advisory council, Parent Council or Stewardship. Action: members to review the constitution and come prepared for an in-depth review and decision process to determine the role of the group during the April meeting [note this may be deferred to the may meeting dependant on the planning session arrangements and time factors with Liz Roberts]. Please note this is a critical step in moving forward and participation by all is very important.

Need to establish commitment, whose? Options discussed:

This was discussed at great length and it was felt this would be an integral part of the role development process in 6.2 and the Search Conference

Sandy advised that the Manitoba Association of Parent Councils in partnership with MB Education and Youth is in the process of updating the parental handbook. They are requesting input form parents to review the draft and provide feedback. A draft copy will be made available by the end of MAY. Sandy is coordinating a group of parents from schools within the Division that are willing to participate in the review process. We anticipate an initial meeting where the document will be distributed and goals / objectives defined. Members will then review the document independently, come back together at a future meeting and reach consensus on necessary changes in order to provide a Brandon recommendation on the required changes, if any.

Action: Please advise Sandy of your interest in participating in this process