The school is part of the "school system" and part of society. It is linked to it in all sorts of ways.
In an attempt to shed some light on this, we've tried to trace the networks to which a school is linked. Without being exhaustive, the picture is nonetheless intriguing.
There are, of course, the physical networks - water, energy, communications, material purchases - but also those of the services that ensure material and administrative operations, including shops and financial or health services.
But the most specific to schools are the professional and social networks linked to teaching activities. These range from parents' and students' associations to trade unions, professional associations and federations of all kinds.
In short, there are dozens of networks, in as many disciplines and sub-disciplines as there are professional groups involved in education.
All of which adds up to a clearer understanding of the challenge facing school principals and the level of delegation they must achieve and supervise.
School networks
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