2026-2027 Parent Council Co-Chairs
Karen Hudson Desrosiers '96, P'28
I am grateful to be stepping into the role of Parent Council Co-Chair. This community holds a massive piece of my heart as Bay View has been part of my life for a very long time; first as a student in the Class of 1996, and now as a proud mom of Ella, Class of 2028.
I am truly excited to have the opportunity to give back to Bay View by supporting the community, encouraging parent involvement and helping strengthen the connection between families and the school. My biggest hope is to have all families feel welcomed, involved, and deeply connected to the Bay View family.
We are looking forward to a fantastic, and successful year packed with wonderful events for all to enjoy.
Heather Boyle P'32, '33
Like many Bay View parents, I’ve experienced how busy life can be and how easy it is to miss opportunities to engage with our community. As a Co-Chair, I am most excited about helping make those opportunities manageable and accessible, while helping families feel a greater sense of belonging. My hope is that every family feels there is a place for them at Bay View and that Parent Council makes it easier to get involved in whatever way feels right for them.
Whether through Parent Council-related events, conversations, or volunteering, I look forward to getting to know you in the days ahead.
Every parent is a member of Bay View's Parent Council simply by choosing the Academy for his or her daughter.
Strong and dedicated participation allows parents, faculty and administrators to work together to build community and bring resources to the Academy, all to benefit our girls and young women. The Parent Council supports and promotes the school community through activities involving parents, students, faculty, staff and administration. It works to foster a spirit of solidarity, community and collaboration by providing opportunities for parents to meet socially, to become actively involved in the life of the school and to support the Academy's fundraising efforts.
MISSION
The Parent Council (PC) embraces and promotes the mission of St. Mary Academy - Bay View. It works together with the school community to support our mission as an educational community rooted in the values of the Sisters of Mercy and the charism of Catherine McAuley.
PURPOSE
The Bay View Parent Council strengthens the partnership between families and the school by creating opportunities for connection, engagement, and community-building. Through volunteerism, signature events, and collaboration with school leadership, the Parent Council helps foster a welcoming and vibrant PreK–12 community where families feel connected to Bay View and to one another.
Every Bay View parent and guardian is a member of the Parent Council, and all are encouraged to participate in ways that align with their interests, talents, and availability.
Volunteer Background Check and Training Requirements
All volunteers at St. Mary Academy - Bay View must complete the following requirements every five years:
- Safe Environment Training: Bay View will coordinate this training for both new and returning volunteers.
- Background Checks:
- A Rhode Island BCI (Bureau of Criminal Identification) check.
- A national background check conducted through AssureHire.
These requirements ensure a safe and secure environment for all members of our community.
Important Update for Massachusetts Residents
Effective November 12, 2024, volunteers with a Massachusetts driver's license will no longer need to complete the Massachusetts CORI background check. The new national background check includes all states, making the CORI check unnecessary.
Thank you for your cooperation in maintaining a safe and welcoming environment at St. Mary Academy - Bay View.
To complete the Safe Environment Training, virtually log into a meeting or see Melissa Braga in McAuley Hall.
The virtual training sessions are scheduled for the third Thursday of every month at 12:00 PM. Please use the link below to register for a session on the date of your choice. Once you have completed the training, Melissa Braga will send you the Diocese of Providence's form confirming your your successful completion of the Safe Environment Training course. If you have questions or need further assistance, please feel free to email Melissa at mbraga@bayviewacademy.org.