GEORGE NEWS - Over the next few weeks, student governing body (SGB) election processes will take place at schools all over the country. Western Cape Minister David Maynier urges parents to vote in these elections which involve all parents and caregivers. Each school will be informing parents of its specific election timelines.
SGBs represent all sectors of the school community, including parents, teachers, non-teaching staff and learners in Grades 8 to 12.
"They have a long list of responsibilities and decision-making powers on various areas such as the school's admission policy, language policy, the formulation of the school's constitution and mission statement, the code of conduct and disciplinary procedures, the budget and financial management, recommending staff appointments, and supporting the principal, teachers and other staff," said Maynier.
Election methods
The election of an SGB can be undertaken manually, electronically, or using both methods. In the case of a manual election, schools may allocate timeslots when parents may visit the school to physically cast their vote.
Voting must take place over one full day, which may not start earlier than 07:00 and may not end later than 20:00. A manual voting station must be open for a minimum of five hours. For an e-election, voting may be open for the full day from 07:00 to 20:00. Schools that decide to have an e-election are required to set up at least one e-voting station at the school to make provision for those who cannot vote online from elsewhere.
Parents will nominate candidates for the voters' roll prior to their school's election.
Wise choice
"While governing body members are not required to have formal qualifications, it is beneficial to have parents with integrity, dedication and commitment," said Maynier. "Knowledge of financial management, legal processes and maintenance are particularly useful, given the kinds of decisions that SGBs must make and the responsibilities they are entrusted with.
"We urge parents to fully participate in the voting process on the dates communicated by their schools and to carefully select candidates that have the best interests of their children at heart." - Michelle Pienaar
