A recent survey conducted by Tomball ISD shows that parents, students and staff have significant concerns about several aspects of the educational atmosphere in the district.

The survey, which was created by district administrators, revealed among the many concerns those polled have concern student-teacher working relationships and bullying.

According to the survey, only about 45 percent of the students polled felt they respect district teachers, while a little more than 65 percent of teachers say they felt respected by students.

Conversely, just over 70 percent of students believe they are respected by teachers, while about 92 percent of educators say they respect students.

But while some of the survey results may raise some concern, Mary Ann Sweet, district coordinator of testing, cautioned members of the board of trustees, stating the results were “very subjective,” and that some aspects of the survey need to be reconsidered for future use.

Sweet explained that very few of the high school students who were provided the survey did not reply and the young students’ perception of school in general should be taken into account.

The poll questions were chosen by members of the school district with the idea that they be “relevant to the vision and goals” of the district.

The survey was provided to parents via e-mail and at district campuses through computers that were set up during special events. Of the 8,174 surveys that were sent to parents, 15 percent responded; 73 percent of staff surveyed responded and 1,923 students were polled.

Sweet also explained that “the survey measures perception” and “when looking at the perceptions, we need to ask, ‘Is it true?’”

Another area of concern the survey revealed is bullying at district campuses. Less than 50 percent of students who responded said bullying “is an insignificant problem” at their respective campus. Campus staff members mostly agreed, with just over 55 percent making the same claim.

In addition, approximately 55 percent of parents believe “positive ways to deal with bullying have been taught” throughout the district.

Meanwhile, the district received mostly high marks from those polled in being a “supportive and inviting place to learn,” and in preparing students for future success.

When asked if “teacher expectations are known by students,” more than 80 percent of parents, students and staff responded favorably. Also, more than 80 percent of those tested believe their respective schools are “a supportive and inviting place for students to learn.”

Sweet later said the district will utilize the results of the survey to make evaluations and consider where the district could improve. The survey stated that “plans will be developed to address the areas of concern and the misperceptions.”

Sweet also said the district will consider revising how the survey is distributed.

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