Governance

There are multiple layers of government that govern schools. Each plays their own role in the operation of schools. The Federal government is in charge of First Nation and Metis education. The Provincial government is in charge of public school divisions and school boards, as well as the superintendents. Then there is the school level and community level. The schools are in charge of the Principals, Vice Principals, and teachers and other staff. The community is in charge of the Parent Advisory Councils and community partners and funding.

The Education Act, also known as the Public Schools Act is the law that surrounds education. It outlines all the duties of teachers, principals, the school board and the number of days of school each year. The Education Act is managed by the government. Curriculum, on the other hand, is managed by the Provincial government. School boards are elected into office and are in charge of the financial aspects of the school division. Superintendents are in charge of education. The school board is in trust of the superintendent, who in turn is in charge of the principal. Basically, this is the education hierarchy.

The important things to remember are:

1.       The Education Act is law! It is above everything else.

2.         The policy manual is written by the School board.

3.       School procedures (like day to day activities) are implemented by the school division and superintendent.