Who are we? What do we do?

1. Who are we? What do we do? As a group of volunteers, the SJW Catholic School Council’s goal is to enhance the academic and social experiences of our children. • We run entertaining fundraising campaigns that provide funding directly to our school. • We attend and share learning from seminars and workshops sponsored by our Catholic School Trustee, YCPIC (York Catholic Parent Involvement Committee) and other groups. • We research and investigate programs to support student well-being. • We collaborate as part of the team that makes SJW such a wonderful place for our children to learn and succeed. Why do we fundraise? Money raised goes toward many things including, but not limited to: • Funding hardware and infrastructure for the school’s computer lab and 21st Century Learning initiatives • Reducing the costs associated with field trips or in-class programs such as “Scientist in the School” or “Artist in the School” • Interactive presentations for students, staff and parents (e.g.: in support of mental health) • Supporting celebration ceremonies • Subsidizing school initiatives including winter carnival and Halloween Haunted House • Most parents think school boards fund these programs, but they can’t do it alone. • Fundraising dollars are needed to support our school and our kids. • I want to help! How do I get involved? We recognize that everyone’s time is important, so we value any commitment you can give from helping with a fundraising event to participating on elected council. Perhaps you have a unique skill you would like to share. If you feel you can contribute in any way or you would simply like to learn more about our school and meet other parents, we encourage you to speak to our current council members and attend our first council meeting on October 2nd to find out more. Nomination forms have been sent home with your child, and additional copies are available in the office. Our Council is shrinking, so we are in need of more parental involvement. Come and join us! St. Joseph the Worker – Get Involved!“When parents are engaged, students improve, classrooms improve, schools improve and the entire community benefits.” from: Planning Parent Engagement, Council of Ontario Directors of Education Join us! Our first Council meeting is: October 2 7:00 – 9:00pm in the school library. WOLVERINES Our SJW School Council – Working Together “Communication is essential to building parent engagement. What parents know and perceive about the school depends on what they see, hear and read.” – Ontario Ministry of Education’s website