Which of the following is not an important function of the SMC (School Management Committee)?
Detailed Explanation
📌 Core Theoretical Concept:
According to Section 21 of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009, a School Management Committee (SMC) must be constituted in all elementary schools. The primary responsibilities of the SMC include monitoring the school's working, supervising the utilization of government grants, and preparing a comprehensive school development plan. However, organizing a monthly student-teacher meeting is not an official or mandated function of the SMC. Instead, SMCs facilitate Parent-Teacher Meetings (PTMs) to bridge the communication gap between families and the school administration. Therefore, option (b) is the correct choice as it does not fall under the statutory duties of the SMC.
📊 Key Exam Points:
- SMC is constituted under Section 21 of the RTE Act 2009 to promote decentralized school governance.
- At least three-fourths (75%) of the members of the SMC must be parents or guardians of students.
- Option (a) Monitoring government grants is a core financial oversight duty of the committee.
- Option (c) Monitoring general school activities ensures transparency and accountability.
- Option (d) Preparing the School Development Plan (SDP) is a mandatory recommendation duty.
📖 Theoretical Reference: The establishment of SMCs emphasizes community participation in school education under the framework of Inclusive Education and educational administration policies.