Parent Focus Group

School code:

     

Interviewer:

     

Parent Focus Group Protocol

1. For turnaround schools: We are visiting this school because it has demonstrated important gains in academic outcomes. Were you aware of this improvement? Who or what do think was responsible for the change?

For comparison schools: We are visiting this school because it has engaged in school improvement efforts. Were you aware of such efforts? Who or what do you think was responsible for initiating these efforts?

     

2. What grades are your children in? Over what period have any of your children attended the school?

     

3. In general, how do you feel about the school? Has your impression changed over time? If so, what caused the change?

     

4. Since the time when your first child attended the school, have you noticed any changes in the school? If so, please describe them.

[Probe: How teachers and principals work—or do not work—with parents, student work, teacher quality instruction, physical plant.]

     

5. To what extent are you involved in school activities? Do you believe you are welcome in the school? Do you believe you have input into school goals?

[Probe: classroom activities, PTA, school improvement team, other volunteer activities.]

     

6. Do you think school personnel encourage parents to get involved? If yes, can you give an example of how parents are encouraged?

     

7. How do you learn about school accomplishments, challenges, or failures? What information is presented?

[Probe: Does the principal communicate regularly with parents? If so, how (telephone calls, regular newsletters or letters, e-mail or e-letters)? Do teachers communicate with parents regularly? If so, how (telephone calls, regular newsletters or letters, e-mail or e-letters)?

     

8. What is the school’s reputation in the district? Does this differ from other schools in the district? If so, how?

     

9. Is there anything else I should know to tell the story of the school's improvement efforts?

     

Protocol for Parents

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