This exploratory study examines how schools in Beijing have responded to a Chinese national policy mandate to establish and maintain parent councils. We surveyed principals and parent council members across schools in the Beijing municipality about the establishment and functions of their schools' parent councils. Survey results provide insights into who comprises parent councils in Beijing schools, what parent councils' primary functions have been, how parent council members and principals perceive the value of parent councils, and the working relationships between parent councils and school principals. (Contains 4 tables.)