A part of the A Plus Education Reform Act of 2000 included the creation of local school councils. The intent of this law was to bring communities and schools closer together in a spirit of cooperation to solve educational challenges, improve academic achievement, provide support for teachers and administrators, and bring parents into the school-based decision making process. The purposes of the local school council include: * To advise the Atlanta Public Schools Board of Education. * To share ideas for school improvement. * To develop and nurture participation. * To bring parents and the community together with Sarah Smith teachers and administrators. * To create a better understanding of and mutual respect for each other's concerns. * To improve communication and participation of parents and the community in the management and operation of the local school. The school council members for 2008-2009 are: Parent Representatives: Mary Lynn Jones and Hillary Yarmowich Community Representatives: Ashley Collins and Brad Muckenfuss Teacher Representatives: Morgan King and Sue Ellis Administrator: Dr. Sidney Baker Meetings are usually held on the last Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in the school's media center. For more information, please contact a member of the Sarah Smith School Council.