St. Michaels University School Parents' Auxiliary Society

Overview

The St. Michaels University School Parents' Auxiliary Society is a volunteer organization and registered charity dedicated to supporting the excellence in education at St. Michaels University School (SMUS) in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Established to foster a cohesive community, the Society includes all parents and guardians of current or former SMUS students, as well as SMUS staff and their spouses.

Structure and Membership

The Society is governed by an elected executive and operates as an independent entity. All parents and guardians are eligible for membership, which involves a modest annual fee of $10 per family. Membership fees support the Society's activities and are managed through the school's student account system. Each family shares a single membership and has one vote in Society meetings.

Activities and Events

The Parents' Auxiliary Society is actively involved in various events and activities aimed at enhancing school life and fostering community engagement:

• Social Events: The Society organizes numerous social events, including coffee mornings, quiz nights, and the Winter Gala, which attracts hundreds of attendees. These events serve as both social gatherings and fundraising opportunities.
• Educational Support: Parent education events are also part of the Society's offerings, providing opportunities for parents to engage in discussions and workshops relevant to their children's education.
• Community Building: Initiatives like "Boarders Without Borders" facilitate connections between boarding and day students by allowing day families to host boarders for home-cooked meals.
• Student Celebrations: The Society arranges birthday treats for boarding students, helping to make special occasions more enjoyable.
• Fundraising and Allocations: The Society implements a structured process to gather project ideas and allocate funds to support various school initiatives and improvements.

Purpose and Impact

The St. Michaels University School Parents' Auxiliary Society plays a vital role in promoting education and enhancing the school community. By organizing events, raising funds, and fostering connections among families and staff, the Society contributes significantly to the educational environment at SMUS. As a registered charity, the Society's efforts align with broader goals of promoting education within British Columbia. The Society's president also serves as a voting member on the SMUS Board of Governors, further integrating the organization's interests with those of the school.

History

Established in 1972, the foundation underlying the Society has long been focused on promoting education within British Columbia. Over the years, the organization has evolved to maintain strong ties with the school community, ensuring that its activities remain aligned with the needs and goals of St. Michaels University School.