Safe and Supportive Schools Index
November 15, 2011
Studies show improving conditions for learning will lead to higher test scores and improved student conduct and attitudes. The Iowa Department of Education was one of 11 states in October 2010 to be awarded nearly $3.5 million in federal funds this year, and nearly $14 million total over the next four years, to support efforts that will measure and improve statewide conditions for learning, which include school safety, student engagement in school, and the overall school environment.
Last spring, Centerville High School was invited to participate in the grant and students, parents and teachers took the first-ever Iowa Safe and Supportive Schools survey to measure conditions for learning, which includes everything from school safety to student relationships with peers and adults.
Data from the student surveys and other school incident data have been used to create a Safe and Supportive Schools Index that reflects the health of a school’s optimal conditions for learning in the areas of safety, engagement and environment. A school could earn 9 points in the area of Safety, 18 points in the area of Engagement and 9 points in the area of Environment for a total possible score of 36 points. The Iowa Safe and Supportive Schools Index therefore has a range from 0 – 36.
Centerville High School INDEX = 24
Click for more information on Centerville High School's Index Report
The following table shows the Index Range and what level of support is needed to improve conditions for learning at Centerville High School.
Schools that scored below 22 showed the greatest opportunity for improvement and received funding to strengthen conditions for learning. All schools that participated in the survey will receive additional support from the Department of Education and Great Prairie AEA.
The chart below provides information about each of the data elements that make up the index.
For more information about the Safe and Supportive Schools Index and grant, visit www.safesupportiowa.com
