June, 2023

 

End of Year Update from the École Willows School PAC Executive Committee

 

Dear Parents and Guardians of École Willows School,

 

As another successful school year comes to an end, the outgoing Executive Committee of the Parent Advisory Council (PAC) wishes to reflect on the past year's accomplishments.

 

First, we are pleased to report that the dedicated efforts of all the many volunteers at our school have led to significant achievements over the past year; of note was the overhaul of the Fun Lunch program, providing children with more diverse and healthy options. We also ran a number of successful events that have not only enriched our children's experiences but also fostered a stronger sense of community within our school. This year we had movies at the school, dances, Pro-D day private showing at the movie theatre, the Blossom Tree Festival, Bike week events, and new PAC-funded picnic tables will be installed for a new outdoor learning space.

 

Furthermore, we are delighted to announce that due to the generosity of the parents and guardians and prudent financial management, we have ended the year with a budget surplus of approximately $10,000, a substantial contribution to our PAC long-term fund which started the year at ~ $62,000.  After the picnic tables payment, we still have about $53,000 in our capital account, which will ensure a secure base for future initiatives that will benefit all students. 

 

We wish to express our deepest gratitude to the school staff, all the volunteers, parents/grandparents/guardians, and community members who have generously given their time and support over the past year; your dedication and hard work have been instrumental in our success. As we hand over the reins to the incoming PAC executive, we are confident that the school is in capable hands, and we wish them every success in the upcoming year.

 

In the spirit of transparency and community engagement, we would like to address a matter that was brought up by a member, regarding our financial reporting. After questions were directed to the PAC and then confirmation that they were answered to the member's satisfaction and despite there being no evidence of any impropriety, we formed a Financial Review Committee open to all all voting PAC members. We believe this proactive step will further strengthen trust within our community. Furthermore, any PAC member may request to view approved financials, without waiting for a meeting or making a motion. At the AGM, we provided a comprehensive report of our income and expenses to date for the year. We would like to assure all parents and guardians that every funding request we receive is evaluated thoroughly and impartially and decisions are made in the best interest of the entire school community.

 

In conclusion, it has been a great honour to serve the Willows School community this year. We are confident that the robust structures and procedures we have put in place and recommended will continue to guide the PAC in the coming years. Here's to another successful school year ahead!

 

Yours sincerely,

Ian Rennie, Brent Pascall, Alyx Valdal, Monica Haque, Nyssa Temmel, Krissy Johns, Ken Van Leusden

 

Outgoing Executive, Parent Advisory Council 2022/2023

École Willows School