• to approve the budget and ensure the proper financial management of the school
• to arrange student conveyance, student services and the meeting of special needs
• to maintain relations with the Department of Education, the regional school board and the NSTU
• to define and approve policies
• to facilitate the work of the community council
• to participate in evaluations

The powers, responsibilities and accountability of the Board of Governors will be defined in a memorandum of agreement between the Minister of Education and the Community-Operated Public School. The memorandum will also specify the method of election and the term of board members, the frequency of meetings and the quorum.

Community Council

The concept of the Community-Operated Public School was the result of the ideas and concerns of citizens of Margaree expressed during the "Kitchen Forum ". The consultation process was essential in determining the community's needs and desires in education. To continue this valuable process throughout the term of the Community-Operated Public School pilot, community members and other interested people will be offered opportunities to contribute to the direction of the school and share in the process of evaluation.

Most importantly in this regard the Board will be advised by a "Community Council" which will have representation from all geographic areas of the community. The Board of Governors will provide necessary resources to the community council to facilitate regular neighbourhood meetings so that the advice of the Council reflects the concerns and ideas of the community.

The Community Council will have twelve members, three representatives from each area of Margaree: East Margaree and north, S.W. Margaree, Margaree Forks, and N.E. Margaree. As much as possible, these twelve members will include equal representation among recent high school graduates, parents and senior citizens.