Changing the number of parent representatives

All boards have five parent representative positions unless:

  • the board has decided to officially change its number of parent representative positions to no fewer than three or no more than seven
  • the board has an alternative constitution which has been approved by the minister and gazetted

Changing the number of parent representatives is quite a straightforward process that involves "altering the board’s constitution".

Be sure to contact NZSTA's Advisory and Support Centre on 0800 782 435 (option 1) or email govadvice@nzsta.org.nz for advice. This will help the board make an informed decision.

Key points about the process

The board:

  • can change the number of parent representative positions on its board to no fewer than 3 and no more than 7. This cannot be done if the board has already started the process for triennial or mid-term elections.
  • must make this change by board resolution (decision) at a meeting open to the public. This decision must be recorded in the meeting minutes.
  • must notify its school community of the meeting where it is going to decide whether or not to change its constitution. They have the right to attend.
  • Boards of state-integrated schools will need to consult with the proprietor before making decisions about changing their board constitution.

After the board has changed its constitution

A board:

  • must update the board member register with details of the decision
  • must notify the Ministry of Education and should also notify NZSTA so they can update their records.
    • Ministry of Education email: information.officer@education.govt.nz
    • NZSTA email: database@nzsta.org.nz
    • You can use this suggested wording:
      "The XX school board (insert school profile number here) resolved at a meeting on (insert date here) to alter the number of parent representatives on its board to (insert number)"
  • must hold a by-election to fill any casual vacancy created by the board increasing the number of parent representative positions (selection is not an option in these circumstance)

More information

Education and Training Act 2020, section 121 - changing a board’s constitution.

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