School Council

School Councils play an important role in supporting student achievement, well-being, and family engagement. Through the active participation of families and community members, School Council helps strengthen the connection between home and school.

Our School Council is made up of democratically elected parent representatives who work collaboratively with school staff and community members to support the success of all students.

What Does School Council Do?

School Council members:

  • Focus on student learning and the best interests of all students.
  • Provide a forum for families and community members to contribute to student achievement and school improvement.
  • Make recommendations to the principal and the Board on matters that impact student success, accountability, and academic excellence.
  • Serve as a communication link between families, the school, and the broader community.
  • Encourage family and community engagement in school life.

School Councils provide advice and recommendations; however, the principal remains responsible for decisions related to school operations and activities.

For more information, visit School Councils | Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board.


School Council Elections

School Council elections are held each fall in accordance with Ontario Regulation 612/00.

Parents, guardians, and caregivers of students enrolled at Spring Valley Elementary School are encouraged to consider serving on School Council. Elections take place during the first School Council meeting of the school year and are open to all eligible members of the school community.

Information about nomination procedures, election timelines, and available positions will be shared with families in September.

Serving on School Council is a meaningful way to support student success, strengthen family engagement, and contribute to the ongoing growth of our school community.


School Council Members and Contact Information

School Council is made up of dedicated parent and caregiver volunteers who work in partnership with school staff to support student achievement, well-being, and family engagement at Spring Valley Elementary School.
 
We extend our sincere appreciation to the individuals who generously volunteer their time, expertise, and commitment to strengthening our school community.
 
For questions, suggestions, or to learn more about School Council, please contact us at:

Email: [email protected]

2026–2027 School Council Members

School Council membership is determined through the annual election process held each fall. This section will be updated following the School Council elections.


School Council Meetings

All parents, guardians, and caregivers are warmly invited to attend School Council meetings, either in person or virtually. Meetings provide an opportunity to learn about school initiatives, share ideas, offer feedback, and support student success and well-being.

Time: 4:15 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.
Location: School Library and Microsoft Teams

Meeting Dates

School Council meeting dates will be confirmed following the annual School Council elections held each fall. Updated dates will be posted on this page once the new Council has been established.

Proposed 2025–2026 Meeting Schedule:

  • September 30, 2025 – School Council Elections and First Meeting
  • November 18, 2025
  • January 20, 2026
  • March 3, 2026
  • April 21, 2026
  • May 26, 2026

Microsoft Teams meeting information and agendas will be posted on the school website prior to each meeting.

We encourage all families to attend and participate in the conversations that help shape our school community.


Community Engagement and Fundraising

School Council is committed to fostering meaningful partnerships between families, the school, and the wider community. Through volunteerism, family engagement opportunities, fundraising, and community partnerships, School Council helps create a welcoming and inclusive environment where all students can thrive.
 

Community Engagement

Throughout the year, School Council may support a variety of initiatives that strengthen connections between home and school, including:

  • Family learning and engagement events
  • Welcome and community-building activities
  • Parent information sessions and workshops
  • Community celebrations
  • Volunteer opportunities for families
  • School beautification and greening projects
  • Student well-being and mental health initiatives
  • Community partnerships that enhance student learning experiences

These initiatives help foster a strong sense of belonging and encourage families to actively participate in the life of the school.

Fundraising

All fundraising initiatives directly support student achievement, engagement, and well-being.

Funds raised by School Council may support:

  • Classroom and learning resources
  • Technology enhancements
  • Student leadership opportunities
  • School-wide events and celebrations
  • Outdoor learning spaces and playground enhancements
  • Arts, literacy, and mathematics initiatives
  • Educational excursions
  • Student well-being and engagement activities

Specific fundraising priorities and accomplishments will be shared annually through the School Council Annual Report.

Grants

School Council also benefits from funding opportunities that strengthen family engagement and student success.

Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) Grant

Supports initiatives that strengthen parent engagement and communication between home and school.

Parents Reaching Out (PRO) Grant

Provides funding for activities that help families become active partners in their child's learning and well-being.

Together, these grants create meaningful opportunities for families to connect, learn, and contribute to a thriving school community.


Documents


Legislative Foundation

Under Ontario Regulation 612/00, every publicly funded school in Ontario is required to establish a School Council. 

The purpose of School Council is:

"Through the active participation of parents, to improve pupil achievement and enhance the accountability of the education system to parents."

School Councils help ensure that parent, guardian, and caregiver perspectives contribute to a positive, inclusive, and successful learning environment for all students.