The Advisory Board consists of members that offer their experience and expertise to strengthen the decision making process. This assistance is provided through the function of the committees.

It is through the work of these committees that decisions are reached, direction is set, and policy is developed. The Board is advisory only; all final decisions are made by the Sisters of the Institute de l’Union-Chrétienne de Saint Chaumond. Recommendations of the board do not become policy unless the Sisters of the Institute de l’Union-Chrétienne de Saint Chaumond approve the policy.

• The Board is comprised of members who are appointed by the Sisters of the Institute de l’Union-Chrétienne de Saint Chaumond and/or the Pastor of St. Thérèse of Carmel.
• There are four standing committees to assist the Advisory board: Development, Finance, Facilities, and Planning. The Advisory Board develops a set of goals for the committees each spring based on the current and future needs of Notre Dame Academy.
• The Advisory Board meets at least once every month. Special meetings may be called by the Sisters of the Institute de l’Union-Chrétienne de Saint Chaumond as needed.

Committee Roles

Development Committee

• Develops and implements with the Principal/ Development Director a marketing plan for the school.
• Creates a plan for the support of an effective annual appeal.
• Researches and writes proposals for grants.
• Participates in creating a plan for a Capital Campaign when necessary.
• Participates in student recruitment efforts and long-range plans.
• Reviews committee’s polices to ensure consistency with school's mission.

Finance Committee

• Assists the Sisters of the Institute de l’Union-Chrétienne de Saint Chaumond in the development of the school budget.
• Develops a set of financial policies governing tuition, financial aid, and other financial procedures.
• Recommends the tuition schedule.
• Reviews committee’s polices to ensure consistency with school's mission.

Building and Grounds Committee

• Creates and maintains a five-year plan for capital improvements; updates this plan; and oversees the implementation of this plan.
• Monitors the effectiveness of building maintenance.
• Reviews committee’s polices to ensure consistency with school's mission.

Facilities Committee

• Implements a process to ensure ongoing maintenance for facilities.
• Develops strategic plan for facilities usage.
• Develops a replacement plan for facilities requirements.
• Publishes and monitors the implementation of the plan and updates the plan annually.
• Reviews committee’s polices to ensure consistency with school's mission.

What Does the Advisory Board Do?

• Advises the Sisters of the Institute de l’Union-Chrétienne de Saint Chaumond.
• Models Faith community in a spirit of cooperation and interdependence.
• Provides a structured open forum dialogue.
• Provides support to the Sisters of the Institute de l’Union-Chrétienne de Saint Chaumond.
• Supports decisions of the board as a whole.
• Assists the administration in the implementation of the policies.
• Supports effective administration, operation and maintenance of the school.
• Provides a means of communication.
• Responsible for maintaining sound public relations with the parish and civic community.
• Reviews and discusses programs in light of the administrative vision for the school.
• Develops and strengthens the financial functioning and viability of the school.
• Recognizes that teacher evaluation is one of the principal's most serious responsibilities and does not interfere in the exercise of this responsibility.
• Evaluating annually the board’s effectiveness, productivity and internal operations.
• Provides recommendation on school policy issues.

What Does the Advisory Board Not Do?

• The board does not attempt to administer the school. Many problems come from crossing that thin line between policy and administration.
• The board does not abuse its authority nor shirk its responsibilities.
• The board does not represent his/her own special interests or that of a special group (parent, teacher, parishioners, etc.).
• The board does not act as a grievance committee or solve problems for individuals.
• The board takes no part in the hiring, evaluating, or terminating faculty and staff; nor do they advise Principals of their responsibility in personnel matters.
• The board takes no part in the Administration of the school or in directing the Principal or Administrator on the administration of the school.
• The board takes no part in implementing policies and procedures.