Many thanks to everyone who took the time to complete our annual PTSA membership survey. We had 140 responses, which is our highest response rate ever, and we truly appreciate the feedback from our membership. Congratulations to the 3rd class for having the highest percentage of responses as a grade level – enjoy your extra recess! Here are some of the highlights from the survey results:
• Our membership is well informed about PTSA events and activities. The most effective forms of communication continue to be the Coyote Howler, the Coyote Connection and class newsletters/emails. In addition, a majority of responders would like CRE to have a private Facebook page to communicate PTSA information so we are looking into this for the next school year.
• Over 85% of respondents feel that the $60,000 we spend to support the art and science grants, reading and instruction, staff grants and curriculum and our building and equipment are very important to continue.
• A strong majority of respondents support the $10,550 we spend on PTSA programs and activities. The most popular programs are the ones that impact the entire student population such as birthday celebrations, Eager Reader, Science Fair, Great Kids, safety patrol and Festival of Cultures.
• While a playground update would be supported by our membership, small changes such as simply having a lot more balls and adding some nature elements would go a long way toward making the kids happy.
• The membership likes the convenience of having paid before/after school programs at the school but would like to see more variety in the offerings. For the next school year we are looking into more physical activities (running club, other sports clubs), drama, art, Lego and some different technology offerings.
• Most of the respondents volunteer in some capacity at CRE and for the 15% who don’t it’s either because they have no time or have small children at home. For most, volunteering at CRE is a great experience.
• The vast majority of our membership will not attend a General Membership meeting or a coffee with the Principal, regardless of what is discussed or when the meetings are held. Respondents are confident in the PTSA Executive Board and its priorities and feel that they have adequate access to Natalie and the staff at CRE. We take that as a compliment and plan to reduce the number of meetings we hold as a result.
• The Race to Nowhere movie showing at CRE was highly regarded and we plan to show the movie at least once during each school year. Other suggested speakers and topics for Parent Ed include continuing emphasis on reducing stress and anxiety in students, online safety and bullying.
• The membership overwhelmingly supports continuing with 1 active fundraiser to support PTSA that includes parents and kids. While the community elements of the WAT are very popular, many agree that the event needs an overhaul. Stay tuned for information about next year’s Fall fundraiser.