School Climate Survey

This survey is designed to assess perceptions of school climate, including feelings about safety, relationships, learning, the environment and communication within our schools. Since the beginning of last school year, a team of WAPS administrators, teachers and other staff members have been working with the School Climate Center at the Minnesota Department of Education to help improve school climate for our students, staff and families. The results from this survey will help the group in their work. 

No, taking the survey is optional. However, in order for the survey results to be meaningful, we need to hear from as many voices as possible to help us build a school community that values, validates and respects every person. We encourage everyone to complete the survey, but will respect their decision if they decline.

All Winona Area Public Schools parents and guardians (Grades EC-12) and all staff members can take the survey. Students in Grades 3-12 will take the survey as well. The survey is available in both English and Spanish.  Please contact communications coordinator John Casper at john.casper@winona.k12.mn.us or call 507-494-0902 with any questions.

Students in Grades 3-12 will take the survey at some point in October. They will take it during the normal school day. Students will be encouraged — but not required — to take the survey. If a parent or guardian doesn’t want their student taking the survey, they should contact the building principal. Students will participate in another activity of their teacher’s choosing during the allotted survey time.

It takes about 20 minutes to complete the survey. 

If you have a student in more than one building, we ask that you complete a survey for each building.  If you have more than one student in the same building, it is your choice.  Not all students have the same experience in a school, even if they are from the same family.  If you feel that two different surveys should be completed to give the best possible information, then please do so. 

Families and community members will have access to the survey questions. However, because it is copyrighted material, the surveys must be viewed at a school building. You cannot make a copy of the survey questions or take a photo. If you would like to see a copy of the survey questions, please contact your building principal.

The National School Climate Center (NSCC) will compile all of the results and conduct a thorough data analysis. When this process is completed, NSCC will send us a detailed report with our results. These findings will be analyzed and used by the school climate improvement team in its work. A summary of the results will also be shared at a school board meeting, posted online at winonaschools.org and shared with local media. Additional outreach events may be planned as well. 

Thank you for taking the time to consider the Comprehensive School Climate Inventory (CSCI) survey. Improving school climate is a major focus for Winona Area Public Schools, and your voice is integral as we continue our work to meet the needs of all learners.