Friends of Holy Cross

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Parent participation in the life of the College is essential to enhance student learning and well-being. There are numerous opportunities for parents to contribute, from participating on classroom rosters to attending school events and information evenings. The Friends of Holy Cross is the parent body that oversees and organises many activities that build a strong sense of community and raise much-needed funds.

The Friends of Holy Cross operate at the direction the College Principal under the guidelines and parameters of the Friends of Holy Cross Commission.

The Friends of Holy Cross Council is the co-ordinating arm of the parent body and will seek assistance from the wider College community at various times throughout the year.

Why do we have a parents and friends group?

The Bishops of Western Australia recognise that the support of parents and the school community is critical in
the education process and, therefore, urge parents and friends to take every opportunity to be involved.
“Catholic schools would not exist without the outstanding dedication and contribution of parents. We thank
parents for all that they currently contribute to Catholic schools. We urge all concerned to support their schools
as far as possible.”

Research shows that students whose parents are actively involved in their education achieve enhanced
outcomes. Dwyer (Catholic School Studies, May 2001) suggests that:

• A student’s performance is strongly influenced by his or her parents’ attitude to the school.

• Achievement levels tend to rise when parents are seen to be interested and involved in their child’s schooling.

• Parental involvement can increase goodwill and help develop a real sense of community within the school.

• Parents have many ideas and skills that can be very useful to their school community.

How does it operate and what do they do?

The Friends of Holy Cross is comprised of The Executive Council and all members of the Holy Cross College
community willing and interested in participating and supporting the aims of the Friends of Holy Cross and the
College. Friends of Holy Cross meets once per term and is open to all members of the Holy Cross College Community.

The Friends of Holy Cross Executive is an elected body consisting of the Chair, Deputy Chair, Treasurer and Secretary, and Principal or delegate (ex-officio).

There are four permanent councils that mirror the four College LIFE Pillars:

• Learning Council supports educational events conducted or supported by the College and organises parent educational seminars and workshops.

• Inter-relationships Council organises social opportunities to build community spirit and provide opportunities for the College community to gather.

• Faith Council supports the liturgical events of the College and provides faith formation activities for parents.

• Enrichment Council organises fundraising activities and supports the enrichment activities of the College.

How can I participate?

Parents can help by:

• Nominating for a position on the Executive Council;

• Leading or joining one of the LIFE Councils;

• Attending Friends of Holy Cross meetings (two per term – one morning and one evening);

• Volunteering to provide assistance at Friends of Holy Cross events; and

• Attending Friends of Holy Cross events and supporting Friends of Holy Cross initiatives.

Please register your interest in assisting with the work of the Friends of Holy Cross by completing the form below or by contacting the College office. The Friends of Holy Cross is an excellent way to make friends and build support networks.

The 2023 Committee members:

Position	Name
Chair	Eva Gomes-Sebastiao
Deputy Chair	Kat Elmer-Gray
Treasurer	Stephanie Rees
Secretary	Alicia Whitelaw
Learning Pillar	Lindsay Jacklin
Inter-relationship Pillar	Leanne Palmer
Faith Pillar	Susan Sorensen
Enrichment Pillar	Kat Elmer-Gray
College Board Nominee

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