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Please visit the Talents Program Parent Survey google doc. [|Survey Link - see google docs]

Portfolio: Parent Survey Reflection

February 22, 2010

Does seven responses out of twenty-seven sets of parents a survey make? Well, it’s what I received, even after sending home a note after learning that some parents had had this survey land in their spam filter.

My immediate bit of learning: next year, send this home with students as an assignment. Figure out a way to keep it electronic, as the google survey is so useful for synopsis. I am disappointed with the response level: 26%, barely a quarter. How do I make this more compelling to parents?

That said, I’m pleased with the comments and predominantly high scores. One parent reported mostly 3s and 2s, which makes me hope they contact me with any concerns. Otherwise, I’m basking.

Now I will survey my students. I also hope to survey teachers, although possibly not until next year. It haven’t done that for a few years and many thing have changed. I’m hoping to find that teachers think so to, and that these changes embody greater transparency and more collaboration, as we all seek to deepen the learning for our most able students.

Next year, I’d also like to survey teachers about how they see the GT program. It’s been a few years since I’ve done this.

I also used Google docs to survey my students. You are invited to peruse this, too: [|Student Survey]

I love the notion that students want their minds jumbled with ideas. That's how I see it. Throw them many hooks (not willy nilly, but thematically). Engagement is key. These students in particular need choice and a fast pace. I do think ALL students need the former. While recognizing that I'm here to serve the GT population, I also think that one of the Talents Programs roles is to inculcate gifted behaviors in everyone. What does that mean, exactly. Well, it's recognition and encouragement. Some of my most meaningful interactions are with kids not identified as my "caseload," whether they be advisees, Legenda or writing club kids, or other students. I love that we are a middle school and that there's so much opportunity for interaction between us.