Southern Region Representative

Nicole Allen

I joined CSPACG in 2019 – the council was discussed at our school board meeting briefly, and I decided it would be a good challenge. I want to increase parent influence on the education of students in the Catholic school system. As someone involved in education myself, I wanted to ensure that I was doing all that I could to allow my children to be the best they can be. Critical reflection can only occur when you immerse yourself in something and work as a team to ensure all needs are met.  

Parent engagement is, initially, the close engagement a school has with its families to ensure the best outcomes for children. However, for those of us that need or want more, parent engagement is a process between a system and the family community to allow the best policies, practices and procedures to be adopted. That strong connection is unique to the Catholic Education System. For me, true parent engagement means that I have the avenues and opportunities to support my children and others, be in a position to advocate for children’s wellbeing and work with other professionals to achieve the best possible outcomes for all. 

Conversations with like-minded, committed families, has inspired me to represent parents on this council. 

I feel that my experience as a parent in the Catholic education system is valued by both the schools in which my children attend as well as the Council. I bring knowledge to the role regarding families dealing with additional needs as all three of my children are on the Autism spectrum and have ADHD / ODD. As someone who has a Master’s in Special Education, my goal is that in time, with both my personal and professional knowledge I can make a positive impact.

My hope for CSPACG is that the work done by this council is of value to the wellbeing of Catholic school students and that the council can provide all families with support, guidance and re-assurance that we are all striving along a continuum towards excellence where all children’s and families are valued and recognised.