A successful school council can get many great things done at their school. This work can be challenging yet satisfying for those school council members who work hard throughout the year. Keeping a council organized and energized takes a group of individuals that share workload and move in the same direction towards a common goal.
To keep members feeling positive about their contribution and enthusiastic, consider the following tips:
- Be specific and set parameters about tasks to be completed.
Being specific about which tasks need completing and determining the most efficient way to accomplish this task will reduce the amount of effort required by a member. Being vague about what is to be accomplished may result in people expending more effort and time than is needed. - Encourage members to reach out to other parents for assistance.
Once a plan has been put in place and tasks identified, encourage members to reach out to other parents in the community to assist. - Match members with their talents.
Members will feel more confident and excited about tasks that match their talents and interests. Perhaps a member has a background in social media and communications. Delegating these tasks to this member will not only benefit the council but will likely require much less time than someone who does not have experience in this area. - Spread out the work.
We often hear that it’s the same people that do all the work. As a council leader, it is imperative that all members and parents in the community are encouraged to get involved and support activities and events, even if the same people volunteer over and over again. Eventually, these people will burn out and if you have not been open to others contributing in the past when you need them they will not be there. - No one is perfect. Be grateful for the help and gracious about problems that may arise.
Everyone is human and people feel humiliated if they make a mistake and are centered out. Let them know you appreciate their effort and ask them if you can strategize as a council to resolve the problem. - Be aware of signs a member may be burning out.
If a member who has always participated eagerly in events and meetings all of a sudden stops attending, reach out to them. Ask them if they are feeling overwhelmed and discuss options to reduce the pressure. - Gratitude goes a long way.
Take the time to thank volunteers at every event, for attending meetings and for any other work they do on behalf of the school. It is important that not only council leaders show their appreciation, it is imperative that Principals do the same.
Remember that many hand make light work. A school council is most effective when all members work together, are energized/feel excited about what they are doing and feel appreciated.
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