The Rockingham Montessori School, formerly known as Rockingham Family School, was started in February 1985 by a group of dedicated parents and Elizabeth Sugars; the leader and founder of the school. She inspired all by keeping the "T.E.A.M . Spirit " foremost in everyone's mind; "T.E.A.M" being an acronym for "together everybody achieves more" . The school started in a small house in Safety Bay. The success of this school brought about the planning of a new school, and in 1988, the school we enjoy today was built.

 The original parents moved on, and in 1998 those parents who had their children at the school chose to adopt the Montessori philosophy in its entirety. This is unique as most Montessori schools grow with their children. Montessori trained staff were employed, Montessori materials and equipment bought and programs put in place at the start of 1999.

School Structure

The overall governance for the school lies with the School Council. The School Council is made up of five executives: Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer, Marketing and Public Relations and other members as agreed by the association, that is the parent body. These members are nominated and elected annually by members of the parent body. The Principal is a member of the council. Whilst the school council maintains its legal responsibilities for ultimate control over school affairs, the school is managed on a day-to-day basis by the school Principal.

Portfolios

Scholastic Book Club: This portfolio is for the person who can liaise with the book club, distribute flyers for the purchase of books and obtain books for the school when possible. These orders should be placed in the scholastic box, which is now kept in the kitchen. Independent book sellers leave a selection of books in or outside the kitchen. Parents must pay for the books at the time of ordering.

Public Relations Portfolio: Monitoring how the school is being projected to the community. When required, the public relations person may need to obtain and provide the necessary facts and figures to the council so that they may represent the school to the larger community. Reports to the Council regarding activities and concerns.

Occupational Health and Safety Portfolio We encourage parents to be observant and note occupational health and safety issues in the book provided in the office.

Garden Portfolio: The holder of this portfolio provides the School Council with information and requirements for the upkeep and maintenance of the grounds and gardens (Action Plans are submitted). On this advice Busy Bee job lists and financial allocations are made.

School Policy Review Portfolio: Reviews school policy and present changes to the School Council.

Strategic planning Portfolio: Considers the future of the school. Investigates new building requirements, major repairs and improvements. Plans to implement the long term goals of the school as set by the Council.

Montessori Portfolio: Represent the school on the Montessori Society of WA Committee. Seek to develop the Montessori philosophy in the school and make recommendations to the Council. Investigate the further development of Montessori education.

Out of school activities and events: This Portfolio is to provide the social requirements for the families. Including welcomes, farewells and special events.

Portfolio holders report to council regarding any activities or concerns. Any action they may wish to take should be written on an "Action Plan Sheet" and presented to the Council before a Council meeting. Action Plan Sheets may be found in the front office.

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School Structure
Portfolios