SCC functions
Board of Education Policy 2411 describes the major functions of the School Community Councils:
- Review the school Academic Plan and Financial Plan and either recommend revisions of the plans to the principal, or recommend the plans for approval by the complex areas superintendent.
- Review evidence of school progress on the implementation of the Academic Plan.
- Participate in the principal selection and evaluation process.
- Submit requests for waivers to policies, rules, procedures and exceptions to collective bargaining agreements to improve student achievement.
- Provide recommendations for revising or creating new school level policies and procedures;
- Review principal’s determination of school’s repair and maintenance needs; and
- Provide opportunities for community input and collaboration.
The role of the SCCs is to focus their responsibilities on the goals of the school, and, in an advisory capacity, provide direction, coordination, and communication to improve teaching and learning that results in greater student achievement.
The School Community Council:
- Is not a governing board;
- Does not hire and fire the principal;
- Does not control school finances;
- Does not evaluate teachers or other staff;
- Is not a forum for promoting personal agendas; and
- Is not a body whose members “represent” constituencies.
The SCC Activities Checklist and Timeline provides a calendar of activities and key due dates for the above functions and responsibilities.
Approval and Appeal Process
There is a clear and concrete delineation of powers and responsibilities among the school community council, principal, complex area superintendent, superintendent and Board of Education. The
Matrix of Act 51/221 Requirements summarizes the responsibilities of each role group as described in the state statute.
The SCC will be involved in making decisions regarding school improvement with a focus on increasing student achievement. Decision making will include approving or not approving issues brought before the SCC. It is important for the council to understand the approval process and the authority within the DOE, BOE, and respective Unions who are authorized to provide the final approval for such decisions. Learn more about the
Approval Process.
An appeal process provides steps and timelines for SCCs to appeal decisions made by the principal, complex area superintendent, or superintendent.
