By Laws
Taft Elementary
Community School Leadership Council (CSLC) Bylaws
Mission, Vision, and Values
The Community School Leadership Council is guided by the mission, vision, and values of Taft Elementary, the Community Schools model, and the SAUSD Framework for the Future. The council promotes open dialogue, transparent and inclusive communication, collaboration among stakeholders, and equitable access to resources and opportunities for all students and families.
Purpose
The purpose of the Community School Leadership Council is to support the development and implementation of the Community Schools strategy. The council works collaboratively to identify school site needs, review the progress of initiatives, promote transparent communication, and ensure diverse representation in decision-making.
Membership
Minimum membership may include: 1 Administrator, 2 Classroom Teachers, 2 Certificated Support Staff, 2 Classified Staff, 5 Parents/Guardians, and 3 Students. Additional members may participate to represent the broader school community.
Length of Membership
Council members will serve two-year terms. Members may renew their membership if they wish to continue serving and if the council agrees.
Roles and Responsibilities
The council will operate with shared leadership and will not designate formal officers. Responsibilities such as facilitating meetings, taking notes, and sharing updates may rotate among members. Student members may serve as facilitators to ensure student voice is represented.
Core Responsibilities
Lead and Align: Guide the school’s Community School work so it aligns with district goals and supports the unique needs of the school community. Shape Vision and Values: Develop and periodically revisit the mission, vision, and core values to reflect community needs and support student growth. Identify Needs and Find Solutions: Review school data, feedback, and community input to understand strengths and areas for improvement and collaboratively plan next steps. Encourage New Ideas: Support collaboration and innovative thinking to advance school and community goals. Use Resources Wisely: Help plan and review the use of available resources and funding to support effective and sustainable initiatives. Communicate Clearly: Keep students, families, staff, and community partners informed about council work, priorities, and progress. Reflect and Improve: Regularly review outcomes, analyze data, and make informed decisions to support continuous improvement.
Meetings
The council will meet regularly during the school year. Meetings will begin no later than five minutes after the scheduled start time. Members should confirm attendance prior to meetings. Each meeting will include updates on previous or pending items. Meetings may be held in person or via Zoom. The final five minutes of each meeting will be reserved for new ideas or future agenda items.
Communication
The council will provide updates to the school community through communication platforms and school social media when appropriate. Communication will remain transparent and inclusive.
Decision-Making
The council will strive to make decisions through consensus and collaborative discussion. When a vote is required, approval will require at least 75% of the council members present at the meeting, using a thumbs-up voting protocol or another clearly identified agreement method.
Accessibility and Inclusion
The council will prioritize accessibility and inclusion by identifying barriers to participation, coordinating accommodations when needed, and ensuring all voices are heard.
Amendments
These bylaws may be amended by agreement of the council members. Proposed amendments must be discussed during a scheduled meeting and approved by the council before adoption.
(Reviewed on 4/20/2026)