In October 2010, Iowa was one of 11 states to be awarded funding by the U.S. Department of Education to measure and improve statewide conditions for learning, which include school safety, student engagement in school, and the overall school environment. The Iowa program is called Iowa Safe and Supportive Schools (IS3).
When it comes to education, students, parents and teachers are the experts. The time has come to hear directly from them about how we can accelerate student learning by making our Iowa schools stronger and more competitive. Of the 60 schools randomly selected to take the Iowa Safe and Supportive Schools survey which measures conditions for learning and who potentially received grant funding, 47 schools voluntarily agreed to participate in the program.
Waterloo East and West High schools were two of the schools who agreed to participate in the program. The confidential survey focused on issues ranging from student safety, student relationships with other students and adults, and whether students have the supports they need in their schools. Survey results regarding school culture and climate will be made directly available for schools to use to strengthen classrooms and improve education.
East and West High schools have both been awarded a three year grant.
Iowa Safe and Supportive Schools Flow Chart
