All Iowa public school districts are required to administer an annual school climate and culture survey to students in grades 3-12 called Conditions for Learning Survey (Survey). The Survey is designed to measure their engagement in school, safety and the overall learning environment.
In 2021, parents and guardians of students in preschool through grade 12 will have an opportunity to participate in a Parent/Guardian Conditions for Learning Survey as well. This new Parent/Guardian Survey will give parents and guardians added representation in school improvement efforts. The Survey contains similar items to those on the Student Survey, focusing on areas that range from student safety, to positive adult and student relationships, to school rules and how they are enforced.
The Parent/Guardian Survey, which is available in English and Spanish, will be accessible to parents and guardians from April 5 to May 28, 2021 online. The Survey will ask that all parents or guardians of children in preschool through grade 12 complete the first four questions, which the Department of Education must collect as required to report under Part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). However, no person is required to complete the survey and participation is voluntary. The remaining Conditions for Learning questions are optional to answer. A copy of the items on the Survey is available by request.
Responses to the online Parent/Guardian Survey are confidential and the results are completely anonymous. No names are recorded, and no identifying information is attached to specific responses. The results of the Survey will be provided back to the school to be used with the Student Survey results for identifying areas of strengths, and areas for improvement.