TERMS OF REFERENCE

EARLY CHILDHOOD PARTNERS STEERING GROUP

Members of the Steering Group.  There shall initially be 7 members of the Steering Group, comprised of one representative from each of the Early Childhood Partners, and two representatives from the Surrey/White Rock Make Children First coalition (usually the co-chairs).

Changes.  Any changes to numbers or members of the Steering Group are subject to the approval of the Early Childhood Partners.

Procedures.  The Steering Group will make its own procedures, including the appointment of a chairperson and secretary, frequency and location of meetings, notice of meetings, minutes of meetings, appointment of alternative representatives, and requirements for attendance and participation at meetings.

Consensus.  The Steering Group shall operate on the principle of seeking consensus for any actions undertaken by the Steering Group.

Purposes of the Steering Group.  The purpose of the Steering Group shall include the following:

• Overseeing the negotiation of the annual agreements for the funding of the Office of Early Childhood Development, Learning and Care as per the Memorandum of Agreement signed by the Early Childhood Partners on January 26, 2006.
• Establishing the goals and scope of the Office of Early Childhood Development, Learning and Care that are complementary to the vision and principles outlined in the 2004 report Valuing Our Children: Taking First Steps Together, and fit with the values and strategic directions of the Steering Group members
• Recruiting and contracting the services of a Co-ordinator and other contractors as required to oversee, manage and carry out the deliverables of the Office of Early Childhood Development, Learning and Care
• Providing advice, direction and expertise to the Co-ordinator
• Approving and monitoring the annual workplan and deliverables of the Office of Early Childhood Development, Learning and Care
• Acquiring funds and in-kind expertise to support the Office of Early Childhood Development Learning and Care and the deliverables to be achieved.
• Establishing communications protocols amongst the Early Childhood Partners and other key stakeholders
•  Evaluating the effectiveness of the Office of Early Childhood Development, Learning and Care and making recommendations to the School District regarding the renewal of contracts.
• Any other purposes established from time to time.