Parents Association Committee
We consider ourselves very fortunate to have a very active and highly motivated Parents Association. The PA has had very positive impact on our school community.
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Parents Association Committees of primary schools are appointed annually.
The parent association is the structure through which the parents/guardians in a school can work together for the best possible education for their children. The parent association works with the principal, staff and the board of management to build effective partnership between home and school. Educational research on the involvement of parents in schools shows that children achieve better outcomes when parents and teachers work together.
WHAT DOES A PARENT ASSOCIATION DO?
As per the Education Act 1998 “A parents’ association shall promote the interests of the students in a school in co-operation with the board, Principal, teachers and students of a school and for that purpose may advise the Principal or the board on any matter relating to the school and the Principal or board, as the case may be, shall have regard to any such advice”. The parent association should work in partnership with the Principal and teachers in the development and review of school policies such as the anti-bullying policy, code of behaviour etc.
Parent associations can suggest and/or organise extra-curricular activities with the agreement of the Board of Management, such as dancing classes, sports activities, social events etc. The parent association is a support for parents in the school. The parent association can invite speakers to address the parents on issues which are topical or relevant.
WHAT THE PARENT ASSOCIATION DOES NOT DO.
The parent association is not a forum for complaint against either an individual teacher or parent. The Complaints Procedure is the mechanism for this.
The Children’s Rights Alliance Information
The Children’s Rights Alliance has established an information line for children, young people and their families or people who are working with them to access legal information. The Children’s Rights Alliance provides basic legal information for free and would be glad to help!
The information line is open Tuesday 10-2pm and Wednesday 3pm-7pm. You can call the information line on 01 9020494 or if you prefer to email: query@childrensrights.ie.