PEN (Parent Engagement Network)

St Mary's School PEN (Parent Engagement Network) was formed in May 2025. 
 
The PEN provides a crucial point of connection between the wider school community and school leaders. While the PEN does not have governance responsibility or decision-making authority, it supports the principal and school leadership and provides an important connection to the parish and school community.
 
The following are some ways the PEN supports the school and the principal.

• articulating and enacting the school’s vision and mission 
• promoting the school’s Catholic ethos and culture
• promoting education programs, faith formation and development
• in the development of school policies as required
• in the interpretation of Toowoomba Catholic Schools policies within the school context
• giving advice to the principal on issues such as the school strategic plan
• giving advice to the principal about master planning
• giving advice in relation to capital resource planning and maintenance 

The PEN is not the governing body of a school, and as such does not have a decision-making authority due to it not having a legal identity. While a vital forum for parent and community voice, it is not a forum for individual parent advocacy or special interest representation and does not become involved in the day-to-day management of the school. 

2025 PEN (Parent Engagement Network) Executive

Chair: Mr Andrew Erbacher
 
Parish Priest: Fr John Fowles
 
School Principal: Miss Angela Collins

Secretary: TBD