An Overview Sycamore operates within the guidelines of a unified governance council, which involves staff, parents and students in the decision-making processes for the school. Six committees, each with a single vote, have been created to support that objective.

• Communications
• Curriculum and Assessment
• Safety/Facilities Use
• Spirit
• Volunteer/Personnel
• Ways & Means.

The Chair of each committee serves as a Council representative. The Curriculum & Assessment hair must be a certified teacher. One certified staff must represent one of the remaining committees. In addition to these six formal committees are the Principal and two Facilitators.

Participation in any of the six committees will give parents a greater understanding of and influence over school operations, curriculum and instruction. We encourage you to participate. Refer to the School Directory for a list of current Council Chairs.

Responsibilities of the Council Committees:

Communications
Promote effective school communications, including bulletin boards, the Parent Handbook, School Directory and email; coordinate community media relations to promote an accurate, positive image of Sycamore Elementary School.

Curriculum & Assessment
Oversee curriculum planning, coordination and evaluation; promote extra-curricular learning activities; develop and evaluate assessment procedures consistent with Sycamore’s philosophy; and analyze student achievement data consistent with Sycamore’s essential outcomes and Cud’s Reframing of Excellence standards.

Safety/Facilities Use
Assessing facilities resources and needs, recommending appropriate use of available space to maximize its effective use; promote active involvement in environmental and safety concerns; coordinate emergency preparedness planning; and support of safety in interpersonal relationships by creating a climate of mutual respect and trust.

Spirit
Promote and coordinate all social activities that enhance school spirit and positive interaction among all members of the Sycamore Learning Community.

Volunteer & Personnel
Promote the school volunteer program and maintain a database of volunteers for use by committee chairs; support the Principal, as required, in the hiring of new staff members.

Ways & Means
Handle all fiscal matters, including budget development, fund raising, expenditure tracking, and accounting to the membership. The committee has oversight of parent-generated funds (PGF), which are comprised of any revenue generated by Sycamore fundraising events. Parent-generated funds are used to pay for student aids, technology, the music program, classroom teams, and the budgets for the six Council committees.