Simply stated, the School Site Council (SSC) is a team of administrators, teachers, and parents working for school improvement.

Grand Oaks School receives supplemental educational improvement funds from the School Improvement Program (SIP). The law that created SIP requires each participating school to have an elected governing body, called the School Site Council (SSC), to ensure that the interests of the different segments of the school community are represented in the school improvement process.

The 10 members of the SSC include the school principal, three teachers, one other school staff member, and five parents of students attending the school.

What does the SSC do?

The mission of the SSC is to develop, review, assess, and annually update a plan for school improvement. This plan, known as the Single Plan for Student Achievement, is developed from district, state, and federal guidelines and tailored to meet the particular needs and priorities of our school. The plan shows the comprehensive strategy that will be followed to provide the highest quality educational program for all students.

Additionally, the SSC approves the site 18-hour Staff Development Plan and gives vital input in the creation/modification of various site plans: Technology Plan and Safe School Schools Plan.

What is the Single Plan for Student Achievement?

Important elements of the Single Plan for Student Achievement include:

• Information about Grand Oaks' vision, community description, and coordination of services
• Assessment of the school's current educational practice and staffing
• An analysis of student performance as provided by API reports, STAR data, student grades, and assessment of student work
• Description of our school's goals for improvement and the activities targeted to reach these goals
• Budget information on how Grand Oaks is spending its SIP and GATE dollars

If you would like to see the Single Plan for Student Achievement, a reference copy is available in the school office.

How does Grand Oaks spend its SIP funds?

This year's budget will fund the following: one full-time Computer Lab Technician; additional time for our Media Center Technician; a release day for teachers for assessment analysis; staff development and training; and instructional materials and supplies.

How can I participate in SSC?

• All SSC meetings are open to the public.
• The annual school survey, generally conducted in April, is an important way to express your views.
• Join the SSC! Elections for parent representatives are held in September. Parents serve a two-year term and terms are staggered in order to have experienced members on the council at all times. If you have questions or are interested in serving on the School Site Council, please contact the principal.