The California School Climate, Health, and Learning Survey (CAL-SCHLS) System comprises three interrelated surveys developed for and supported by the California Department of Education:
These surveys provide schools and districts with critical information about the learning and teaching environment, the health and well-being of students, and supports for parents, school staff, and students that foster learning and school success. When used together, data from these three surveys help assess the needs, concerns, and successes of the whole school community – teachers, students, and parents – and allow schools and districts to compare perceptions about the status of these areas across stakeholder groups.
In March of this year, the U.S. Department of Education released The Blueprint for Reform: The Reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (pdf; USDOE, March 2010). This document sets forth the Obama administration’s plans for the reauthorization of the ESEA, and describes areas of focus for improving education across America that will be supported at federal, state, and local levels. A major focus of this reform is to ensure that our nation’s schools receive the support they need to invest in “new models that keep students safe, supported, and healthy both in and out of school, and that support strategies to better engage families and community members in their children’s education.” It is anticipated that schools or districts wishing to receive future ESEA funds be required to provide data from teachers, students, and parents on school climate, student health and well-being, and learning supports.
By using the Cal-SCHLS System, schools and districts can position themselves to collect the kinds of data included in the Blueprint. The System is supported by staff at three Regional Centers who offer ongoing, personalized technical assistance and training. For more information about how Cal-SCHLS can help your school or district meet the mandates of the new ESEA, call: (888) 841.7536.
The California Healthy Kids Survey is a comprehensive and customizable student self-report data collection system that provides essential and reliable data on school climate; youth resilience, health and well-being; and learning barriers and supports. Visit the Website