Case Studies

Engaging Voices: Enhancing Communication Strategies for Maximizing Family Survey Participation

  • Utilizing YouthTruth Tools: Initially, the district relied on the communication tools and templates provided in YouthTruth’s Survey Implementation Guide. Over time, they customized these tools to better fit their needs.
  • Collaboration Between District and Schools Communications: The district prepares all survey communications and begins outreach a week before the survey opens, sending weekly email and text reminders. School principals supplement these efforts by including survey reminders in their weekly communications to families. This dual reminder system ensures families receive at least two prompts per week.
  • Tailored School Efforts: Principals employ creative strategies to boost engagement. One school hosted a morning coffee event overlapping with a parent club meeting, providing an opportunity for families to complete the survey on-site. Another principal used his weekly parent message to report the percentage of completed surveys, motivating additional participation.
  • Creating Buy-In: At the start of each new survey period, the district reminds families of the insights gained from the previous year’s feedback. Using YouthTruth’s data bites tool, they incorporate easy-to-understand data visuals in their communications. By sharing these past results and actions taken based on feedback, the district underscores the value of family input, motivating continued participation.
  • Promoting Inclusivity: Schools ensure inclusivity by going the extra mile. Office staff personally call Spanish-speaking families, inviting them to complete the survey online or offering the option to visit the school’s front office and participate with provided devices.