Dear Parents,
As we begin a new school year, we are also approaching an important moment for education in Quebec: the upcoming provincial election.
In our recent special election edition (link to edition), EPCA shared the responses we received from political parties on issues affecting English public education. I encourage parents to read those responses, ask questions, and stay engaged as election day approaches. Decisions made at the provincial level have a very real impact on our schools, our communities, and, most importantly, our children.
But parent engagement cannot begin and end at election time.
One of the challenges I continue to see is that the important role parents play in education is not sufficiently recognized or understood. I would like to see that change and more clearly recognize the place and role of parents in our education system.
Parents bring an essential perspective. We know our children. We see what is working, what is not, and where families and schools need more support. When parents get involved, whether at the school level, on governing boards, through parent committees, or simply by asking questions and speaking up, they can make a difference.
One of my goals as President of EPCA this year is to help parents understand just how important that difference can be. I want parents across Quebec’s English public school system to feel heard and represented, and, perhaps most importantly, to truly realize the impact they can have.
That starts with participation.
As the school year gets underway, I encourage parents to get involved. Attend a meeting. Ask questions. Learn about your governing board and parent committee. Share your experiences and concerns. You do not need to be an expert in education policy to have something valuable to contribute. Your experience as a parent matters.
There will undoubtedly be challenges ahead this year, particularly as education becomes part of the conversation during the provincial election. But there is also an opportunity to make sure the parent’s voice is part of that conversation and remains part of it long after the election is over.
My goal for the year ahead is simple: more parents engaged, more parents heard, and more parents understanding the power of their collective voice.
I look forward to working alongside you to make that happen.
Katherine Korakakis
President, English Parents’ Committee Association