Welcome from the committee of management! Maribyrnong Kindergarten is a community, non-profit kinder that is run by a committee of parents/volunteers called the committee of management. There are many benefits of having a community-run kinder. These include freedom for the educators to adapt the curriculum to the interests and needs of the children, a greater level of individuality (for example the ability to run unique programs such as bush kinder), a reduction in operating costs and a huge sense of community among the kindergarten’s families and staff.
The committee of management is responsible for the kindergarten’s business operations and reporting to regulatory bodies. Its smooth operation relies on parents, and people from the wider community, with a diversity of skills and experiences to volunteer their time. Through the committee, members are given the opportunity to have a say, be involved in the collaborative running of the kindergarten and play an active role in the wider kinder community.
As well as ensuring the kindergarten meets government regulations, other main responsibilities include:
- planning the budget
- maintaining finances and deciding how funds are spent
- appointing and supporting staff
- organising fundraising events and social activities
- securing the sustainability of the kindergarten both now and into the future.
In order to fulfil these responsibilities, a number of volunteer committee roles need to be filled each year.
Why join?
A parent-led committee enhances the kindergarten’s sense of community with people from a range of backgrounds and experiences getting involved and having a say. Parents join to be part of their child’s education and to actively participate in the running of Maribyrnong Kindergarten. People from the wider community may also join to use their skills to make a difference.
With our busy lives, involvement in the committee can be challenging at times – juggling the responsibilities of parenting, work commitments and volunteering. However, those involved report the experience to be very rewarding. It’s a terrific way to get to know others make a meaningful contribution to the local community. Many members also consider it a valuable learning experience and an opportunity to practice skills which can be applied to other areas of their lives.
Who can join?
Any parent or legal guardian who has a child currently attending the kindergarten or who is enrolled for the following year. Members from the local community are also welcome and can apply for association membership by speaking to the committee secretary.
What’s involved?
You can nominate for a particular role or join as a general committee member. Click here for an overview of the roles. There is also the option to join one (or more) of the sub-committees.
The committee meets monthly online or in person to discuss issues and vote on decisions. Part of these meetings are also attended by representatives of the teaching and admin staff. Outside of the meetings there are always plenty of work to be done with members taking on projects that match their interests, skills and availability of time.
How do I find out more?
Contact us
You’re welcome to contact us via email if you would like more information or to have a chat with a current committee member: president@maribyrnongkinder.com.au.
Speak to a staff member
A staff member will be happy to talk with you about the committee and answer your questions.
2024 committee members
President – Leanne Bilinski president@maribyrnongkinder.com.au
Vice President – Mark Biffin vicepresident@maribyrnongkinder.com.au
Secretary / Public Officer – Teigan Allen & Kelly Lee secretary@maribyrnongkinder.com.au
Treasurer – Laura Zhan treasurer@maribyrnongkinder.com.au
General Members – Derrick Tan (IT Guru), Leah Biffin, Hannah Habib, Monique Fitzgerald, Liam Fitzgerald and Mariee Grima
Committee meeting dates 2024
Thursday 14th March
Thursday 18th April
Thursday 16th May
Thursday 13th June
Thursday 18th July
Thursday 15th August
Thursday 12th September
Thursday 10th October
Thursday 14th November
AGM TBC