School survey to help set district goals

| December 28, 2006 11:00 PM

By GWEN ALBERS Western News Reporter

Do you have issues with or praises for Libby Public Schools?

Come January, everyone will get the chance to express their opinions to school officials.

Teachers, students, parents and other residents will be asked to complete a survey related to spending, facilities, communication, curriculum, security, school climate and more, said district superintendent Kirby Maki.

The surveys will be used to examine and reform short- and long-term goals, Maki said.

"Do we use our money wisely? Do we have other needs where more money would be beneficial?," he said. "With our facilities, do we need to make more improvements? (With communication) "Do you think it's good, or do we need to improve on certain things? Is the school safe? Finally, is the school climate positive, productive and pleasant?"

Libby's teachers and students in sixth or seventh through 12th grades should receive their surveys at school. School officials are considering mailing the parents' and residents' surveys.

"We are thinking we will do some advertising in the newspaper and radio and have some available at different stores and events," Maki said.

Each group - students, teachers, parents and residents - has a different survey.

School board member Gerry Frament encourages everyone to respond.

"I think we're trying to increase community and parent involvement with the schools," Frament said. "We want to know how we stand in their eyes."

He is more optimistic about teachers and students responding to the survey than community residents.

"When it comes to the community, I would think we will get 50 percent (to respond). With students and teachers, 80 to 90 percent. With parents, we do hope to do better than the community."

"We want everybody's input before putting the final touch toward our goals and direction, or you could be looking for trouble," Maki added.

The results of the surveys will be discussed with the public, he said.

"I think it's a good process to get everyone involved," Maki said.