“It shall be the function of the FC to meet at least monthly in order to identify and discuss any and all problems and issues of common concern related to the program at the school. The FC will also make recommendations on site-based reforms regarding the delivery of instruction. The specific function of the Council shall be to advise and recommend.” (7.2)
This is the beginning paragraph of the 2005-2008 contract section about the Faculty Council. With all the councils and meetings and so on, this is probably one of the most misunderstood groups. Most schools do not actually have a functioning council and other schools have one which meets infrequently and a very few have one which apparently works pretty well.
The reasons are varied as to why they function sporadically. Although it is in the contract, many faculty members and administrators do not have the time for this group. However if the FC chairperson has or can foster a good working relationship with the principal as well as the other members of the council, the Council can have a real voice in many aspects of the working of the school.
All in all, the Faculty Council should and can be absolutely in the forefront at every school and should be made up of a group of people who can speak up for their colleagues but also make sure that unit members realize that their Faculty Council is ONLY as strong as the members allow them to be. I would strongly encourage those unit members who have been either elected or nominated, to read the contract text. Also, perhaps visit other sites where they believe the Faculty Council is in proper working order for more ideas and insight to improve our council here at Oakland High.
Faculty Council President Catherine Darwish
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