School Site Council

School Site Council (SSC) Quick Reference Guide for Parents & Community Involvement

What is the School Site Council (SSC)?

● The School Site Council (SSC) is a group of parents, teachers, students, school staff, and community members who collaborate to help improve the school’s performance.

● It is required in California public schools by state law (Education Code 52852) and plays a critical role in school decision-making. Main Functions of the SSC: 1. Develop & Review School Plans: ○ Helps create and update the school’s Single Plan for Student Achievement (SPSA), which outlines goals and strategies for improving academic performance and school climate. 2. Monitor Spending: ○ Reviews and approves the use of categorical funds to ensure resources are directed toward student success. 3. Evaluate School Progress: ○ Analyzes data, such as test scores and other metrics to monitor progress toward school goals. Who Makes Up the SSC?

● The SSC is typically composed of: ○ Parents/Guardians (majority for elementary schools) ○ Teachers ○ School Staff (Classified) ○ Principal ○ Students (in high schools)

● The number of parents and staff must be equal. Elementary SSC typically has ten members and secondary SSC has twelve members minimum. Why Should Parents and Community Members Join? 1. Influence School Decisions: ○ Have a direct voice in how resources are used and how the school addresses student needs. 2. Stay Informed: ○ Gain a deeper understanding of the school’s goals, budget, and strategies for improving student success. 3. Support Students: ○ Your involvement can help ensure that the school’s plan reflects the needs of all students. 4. Build Community: ○ Strengthen ties between families, school staff, and the community. How Can Parents Get Involved?

● Attend Meetings: SSC meetings are open to all. Check with your school for dates and times.

● Join the Council: Elections are held regularly to select parent representatives.

● Share Your Ideas: Participate in discussions and offer input on school plans and budgets. How Often Does the SSC Meet?

● Meetings typically occur monthly, but frequency can vary by school. Participation in these meetings can be in-person or online depending on the school’s policies. Contact Information:

● For more details, contact the school office or the SSC chairperson to learn about opportunities to participate or nominate yourself for a position on the council. This reference sheet is designed to inform and encourage parent and community involvement in the SSC process, highlighting the importance of their role in school improvement.