Advisory Council 

The foundation to a successful Family Resource and/or Youth Services Center is the FRYSC advisory council. Initially an appointed advisory council is involved in the planning stage of the new funding allocation application process. Once established, the advisory council is involved in the center; i.e., the needs assessment process, the funding allocation request preparation, staffing recommendations for the center, oversight of program implementation and operations and a review of budget expenditures at each meeting. The original funding allocation plan contains organizational bylaws for the advisory council. The bylaws will include such items as: the mission and purpose of the advisory council, the composition of the advisory council membership, meeting schedule, voting procedures, advisory council officers and committees, limits for certain expenditures and policy for advisory council operation. 

Advisory Council Role and Level of Authority 

The major purpose of the advisory council is to provide the center coordinator with input, guidance and recommendations with regard to the planning, development, implementation and coordination of center services, programs and activities. An effective advisory council is one that is proactive rather than reactive in the discussion of matters pertinent to the center. The Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ contract with local school districts states the advisory councils shall maintain oversight of the center operations through an ongoing review of: o Budget Amendments o Needs assessments; o Budget review at least every other month o Action Plan updates and amendments; o Evaluation of activities for achievement of outcomes and program effectiveness; o Review of Implementation report The FRYSC advisory council plays a role in the selection of a Family Resource and Youth Services Center Coordinator. FRYSC advisory council bylaws state policies relating to the FRYSC advisory council’s involvement in the screening and recommendation for the position of Coordinator. In a single school assignment, the FRYSC advisory council recommends the applicant to the Principal via the approved SBDM policy. In a multiple school assignment, the FRYSC advisory council recommends the applicant to the district designee/superintendent. It is anticipated that recommendations by the council will be received in an open manner and acted upon by school district administrative and supervisory staff. 

Advisory Council Membership 

Advisory council membership is comprised of parents, school and community representatives. Youth Services Centers or combination centers must have at least two student representatives. The representation on the advisory council signifies the collaboration and linkage between school, home and community that is at the core of a successful FRYSC. 

All meetings are held at Elkhorn Elementary at noon and are open to the public.