½ûÂþÌìÌÃ

From Jan. 20 - March 6, 2015, ½ûÂþÌìÌà provided an important opportunity for families, staff and students to share their experiences in our schools.

The Successful Schools Survey focused on school climate – such as whether a school feels welcoming and safe and in what ways teaching and learning is supported. The survey came at the request of the Portland School Board and Superintendent Carole Smith.

Surveys were filled out anonymously. Overall survey results are being shared with the community and used to shape individual school improvement plans.

All voices matter

The survey was also available to 5th, 7th and 10th grade students, ½ûÂþÌìÌà staff and ½ûÂþÌìÌà families of all students at all grade levels. The survey was available in English, Chinese, Somali, Spanish, Russian and Vietnamese.

The parent/family members survey was administered through our survey partner, , and the Survey takers were asked to create a free account on Oregon's Kitchen Table in order to facilitate taking future ½ûÂþÌìÌà surveys about our schools. ½ûÂþÌìÌà will administer the student and the staff surveys.

Goal of the survey

The Successful School Survey is intended to provide ½ûÂþÌìÌà administrators, principals and teachers with transparent, comprehensive data that measures the differential experience and perceptions of ½ûÂþÌìÌà staff, students and families of all races and backgrounds in our schools.

This measurable, specific feedback will shape an action plan for the continuous improvement of schools and services to children and families.

Areas covered in the survey

A climate survey covers four areas, according to the .

• Safety, Rules & Norms: Including physical safety and social and emotional security.
• Teaching & Learning: Support for social and civic learning.
• Interpersonal Relationships: Respect for diversity; social support for students; social support for adults.
• Institutional Environment: Physical surroundings, school connectedness/engagement.