The Results Are In

Well, the results aren't completely in yet. I'm speaking of the data from the surveys that were administered earlier this month. We surveyed students (877 responses), parents (433), teachers (93), and support staff (44). And although the program quickly tabulates percentages of responses, it takes a while to put the data in a useful format. My secretary is putting the data in bar graph form so that it is easier to absorb and understand.

So far, all efforts have been dedicated to compiling data from the students. In some respects, we believe this data to be most critical to our needs and should have priority. Earlier today, I was able to take a quick look at the bar graph representations. All in all, it looks pretty good.

Here are a few of the highlights:
- 71% of our students have been here since elementary school, while 21% entered while in high school
- 86% participate in after-school activities
- 76% have participated on at least one sports team
- 93% rate the overall education at South as good or excellent
- the highest ratings were for the English (90%) and science departments (81%)
- 91% feel that classes "required for graduation" are either good or excellent
- 90% feel that classes at South are "challenging"
- regarding class size, 15% feel classes are too big, 40% big, and 43% just right
- 62% feel they get individual attention in their classes
- 91% feel they are safe or very safe while at South
- 85% plan to attend a four-year college, with the highest percentage (31%) pursuing a career in science or technology

The data above is just a quick view. Students were also able to provide an open-ended response regarding each of the categories listed. One constant...they don't like wearing ID badges, but I could have told you that before the survey.

When we have a more complete picture, we will share it with you. I wish everyone out there a Happy Thanksgiving and hope the break away from work or school is rejuvenating for you.