NABCCCE

2001 Outstanding Board Award

St. Philip the Apostle School Advisory Council
Dallas, Texas

The advisory council of this K through grade 8 school is comprised of the pastor, the principal, and nine persons who are elected by the parish, who reflect the Caucasian, Hispanic, and African-American constituents of the school. The council establishes and manages the school's annual budget and sets overall policy.

The council has fostered a close working relationship with the principal and the Home and School Association, which has been key to its success. The rapport between the advisory council and the principal is especially effective. Turning working meetings into fun gatherings at each others' homes, including refreshments and children, make it possible to work together for many hours. Members of the council also meet periodically with the faculty to share plans and obtain feedback.

Participation in a diocesan-wide workshop conducted by the National Association of Boards, Commissions and Councils of Catholic Education has enabled this council to further refine its effectiveness.

In past years, the executive committee of the council coordinated the preparation and adoption of a long-range Development Plan that outlined strategic goals for the school. A primary focus of this plan was the upgrading of the school's technology. The council is particularly proud of the hundreds of hours members of the Technology Committee put into implementing this part of the plan. The committee evaluated needs, adopted a plan to install a school-wide computer network, raised funds, and implemented the plan.