📊 Spring 2026 Parent Climate Survey Results

East Lyme Public Schools values feedback from our families and community members. During the spring of 2026, families participated in the Satchel Pulse Family Climate Survey, providing important insight into school climate, communication, student wellbeing, and family engagement across the district.

The feedback gathered through this survey helps inform district and school-level improvement efforts as we continue working to ensure all students and families feel safe, connected, supported, and engaged within our schools.

🔍 Key Takeaways

Families responded positively to questions connected to belonging and engagement:

• Families reported that their children feel welcome at school with an average score of 8.4/10.
• Families reported feeling welcomed when entering schools with an average score of 8.1/10.
• Families indicated they would recommend East Lyme Public Schools to other families with an average score of 7.8/10.

Families reported positive perceptions regarding school safety and the overall school environment:

• Families rated school cleanliness very highly, earning one of the highest scores in the survey at 8.6/10.
• Families rated schools as safe and respectful environments with a score of 7.6/10.
• Families indicated that school staff take concerns seriously with a score of 7.4/10.
• Families rated overall satisfaction with their child’s education at 7.9/10.
• Families reported that schools maintain high expectations for students with a score of 7.6/10.
• Families indicated that teachers provide suggestions for supporting learning at home with a score of 7.5/10.

Survey responses reflected positive relationships and communication between families and school staff:

• Families reported feeling comfortable sharing concerns with teachers, earning one of the district’s highest scores at 8.2/10.
• Families indicated that schools respond promptly when contacted with an average score of 8.0/10.
• Families shared that teachers listen to students when they have problems, earning a score of 7.7/10.

📈 How We’re Using the Data

Questions and themes identified through the survey have been prioritized within each school’s Culture and Climate Improvement Plan and are guiding action steps throughout the district.

Examples of current focus areas include:

• Strengthening communication between schools and families
• Expanding opportunities for family engagement and feedback
• Supporting student emotional wellbeing and belonging
• Increasing recognition of student growth, leadership, and effort
• Continuing restorative and relationship-centered practices
• Enhancing schoolwide systems that support safety, connection, and inclusion

In addition to district-wide planning, each school’s Culture & Climate Committee reviews building-level data to identify strengths, determine next steps, and monitor progress over time.

📊 Fall 2025 Parent Climate Survey Results

We are pleased to share the results of the Fall 2025 Parent Climate Survey, part of our district’s ongoing effort to foster a positive and inclusive school culture. This survey helps us better understand the experiences of families in our schools and informs our school and district improvement planning.

This fall, we received 451 parent/guardian responses, an increase from 387 responses in Fall 2024. Thank you to all families who participated—your feedback matters and is driving real change.

🔍 Key Takeaways

• Safety and Trust: Families feel their children are safe at school (score: 6.9/10), and most would recommend their child’s school to others (6.6).

• Growth Areas: Families want to see more recognition of student achievements (5.2), stronger emotional wellbeing support (6.1), and clearer communication about student progress (6.1).

• Consistency in Experience: While there were modest improvements in some areas, several items remained consistent year over year, helping us identify persistent needs across buildings.

📈 How We’re Using the Data

The questions in the survey with lower scores have been prioritized by our school-based leadership teams as areas of focus in this year’s Culture and Climate Action Plans. These plans are now active in every school and address specific concerns such as:

• Communication between school and families

• Support for students’ emotional wellbeing

• Family engagement and connection to the school community

• Recognition of student growth and effort

 

Student Climate Survey Results Spring 2026

Key Takeaways

Positive Sense of Belonging and Safety

Students continued to report strong feelings of belonging and safety within East Lyme Public Schools.

• “I belong in this school” scored 7.7/10.
• “I feel safe when I am at school” scored 7.6/10.
• “I feel safe on my way to and from school” scored 8.2/10, one of the highest-rated areas in the survey.

These results suggest that most students feel physically safe and connected within their school communities.

---

Strong Relationships with Staff

Students reported positive relationships with teachers and trusted adults across the district.

• “I can talk to trusted adults at school” scored 7.3/10.
• “I trust my teachers” scored 7.5/10.
• “Teachers encourage me to work hard” scored 7.6/10.
• “My teachers have respect for me” scored 7.5/10.

These responses reinforce the importance of strong student-staff relationships and the positive impact trusted adults have on student wellbeing and engagement.

---

Positive Peer Connections

Students generally reported positive peer relationships and strong social connections at school.

• “I have lots of friends at school” scored 7.8/10, one of the highest-rated student experience indicators.
• “Most students get along well” scored 6.6/10.

These results suggest that many students experience positive peer relationships and feel socially connected within their schools.

---

Learning and Engagement

Students reported positive perceptions regarding challenge and engagement in learning.

• “My teachers give me work that challenges me” scored 7.6/10.
• “I enjoy learning at this school” scored 6.6/10.
• “There are a lot of extracurricular activities for me to get involved in” scored 7.2/10.
• “I feel it is important to attend class daily” scored 7.7/10.

These findings suggest that students value opportunities for learning, involvement, and participation in school life.

---

Areas for Continued Growth

While many survey areas reflected positive perceptions, several themes emerged as continued opportunities for growth and focus.

Student Voice and Recognition

Students reported lower scores in areas connected to recognition and feeling valued within the school community.

• “I make a difference at this school” scored 6.4/10.
• “Awards and rewards are given regularly” scored 5.6/10.
• “My efforts are noticed when I’ve done well” scored 7.0/10.

These results suggest opportunities to strengthen student voice, leadership opportunities, and systems that recognize student growth and contributions.

---

Peer Relationships and Respect

Students identified peer relationships and respectful behavior as areas for continued attention.

• “Students at my school are kind and respectful of each other” scored 5.9/10.
• “If I witness unkind or harmful behavior at school, adults will take action” scored 6.6/10.

These results reinforce the importance of continuing restorative practices, relationship-building efforts, and schoolwide expectations around respect and belonging.

---

Student Wellbeing

Students also identified emotional wellbeing supports as an area for continued focus.

• “My teachers help me look after my social and emotional health” scored 6.5/10.

These findings support the district’s continued emphasis on social-emotional learning, student support systems, and trusted adult relationships.

---

How We’re Using the Data

The student survey data is actively informing district and school-based Culture and Climate Improvement Plans across East Lyme Public Schools.

The results are helping schools identify strengths, prioritize areas for growth, and guide action planning throughout the district.

District and school-based focus areas include:

• Strengthening student belonging and connectedness
• Expanding opportunities for student voice and leadership
• Increasing recognition of student growth and effort
• Supporting positive peer relationships and respectful behavior
• Continuing restorative and relationship-centered practices
• Strengthening social-emotional learning and student wellbeing supports

School-based Culture & Climate Committees regularly review survey data alongside attendance, discipline, and other student experience indicators to monitor progress and identify next steps.

---

Commitment to Continuous Improvement

East Lyme Public Schools remains committed to listening to student voice as an essential part of continuous improvement. Student feedback helps guide district priorities and school-based action planning as we continue working to ensure every student feels safe, supported, connected, and valued within our schools.

Student Climate Survey Results Fall 2025

🧠 Fall 2025 Student Climate Survey Summary

The East Lyme Public Schools Student Climate Survey, administered in Fall 2025, offers valuable insight into the experiences and perceptions of students in grades 3 through 12. Their feedback is a critical component of our ongoing efforts to strengthen school culture and ensure a positive learning environment for all.

🧾 Participation

Approximately 1,400 students responded to the survey out of an estimated 1,940 eligible participants in grades 3–12, resulting in a 72% participation rate. This high level of engagement reflects the importance our students place on having a voice in shaping their school climate.

🔍 Key Takeaways

• Positive Peer Relationships

  • Most students report having many friends at school (7.7/10).

  • Peers are generally respectful, though peer collaboration shows room for improvement (6.8/10 for “Students help each other learn”).

• Sense of Belonging and Inclusion

  • Many students feel they belong at school (7.0) and feel safe (7.1).

  • Lower scores were reported for feeling valued: “I make a difference at this school” (5.9) and “Awards and rewards are given regularly” (5.6), indicating areas for growth.

• Trusted Adult Connections

  • Students gave high marks for being able to talk to trusted adults (7.2), which supports a strong emotional safety foundation.

  • Emotional wellbeing scored 6.4, reinforcing the importance of ongoing support services.

• School Environment

  • Schools are largely viewed as clean and tidy (6.6), and students feel respected by teachers (6.8), which contributes to a safe and respectful atmosphere.

• Student Voice and Recognition:

  • Scores suggest a need for more opportunities for students to feel heard, valued, and celebrated.

📌 How We’re Using the Data

The student survey data is a vital input in the school-based Culture and Climate Action Plans across our elementary, middle, and high schools. These results are not just reviewed—they’re actively shaping practice and priorities.

District-Level Actions:

• Identification of Priority Areas: Based on lower-scoring questions around student belonging, peer relationships, and student recognition, targeted strategies are being built into each school’s improvement plan.

• Alignment Across Schools: District leadership is working to ensure shared focus areas like peer support and student agency are addressed consistently across all schools.

East Lyme Public Schools

District School Climate Improvement Plan

2025–2026 School Year

East Lyme Public Schools is committed to fostering a school community where every student and staff member feels safe, supported, and connected. This plan outlines our district priorities for strengthening school climate, supporting positive relationships, and ensuring a strong sense of belonging across our schools.

The plan was developed in collaboration with the District-Wide Culture and Climate Committee and is informed by data from:

• Satchel Pulse (Viking Voices) climate surveys

• Attendance and discipline data

• Academic indicators

• Feedback from students, staff, and families

This plan aligns with Connecticut School Climate Standards and complies with Public Act 23-167 and Public Act 24-45.

---

Our Areas of Focus

Staff Experience and Wellbeing

Survey Areas of Focus

• Staff believe issues they raise are addressed by leadership

• Student behavior is managed effectively

• Workload supports staff wellbeing

2025–2026 Action Steps

District leadership will continue staff rounding and listening sessions to better understand staff experiences and identify areas for improvement.

Key areas currently identified include:

• Supporting teachers in managing student behavior

• Improving communication and responsiveness to staff concerns

• Supporting healthy work-life balance

Feedback gathered during rounding will help inform next steps and action planning.

Alignment with Connecticut School Climate Standards

Standard 3 – Implementation of Practices
Supporting engagement in teaching and learning while addressing barriers to success and strengthening restorative practices.

---

Student Relationships and Belonging

Survey Areas of Focus

• Students report that peers are kind and respectful

• Students report that most students get along well

2025–2026 Action Steps

District and school leaders will work together to strengthen peer relationships by:

• Supporting school-based initiatives that promote positive peer interactions

• Analyzing behavior data to identify trends by grade level

• Implementing strategies that help students develop healthy decision-making and relationship skills

Alignment with Connecticut School Climate Standards

Standard 4 – Safety and Inclusion
Ensuring that every student feels safe, welcomed, and included in school activities.

---

Family Engagement and Community Voice

Focus Area

Strengthening communication and engagement with families.

2025–2026 Action Steps

District leadership will engage families through listening and outreach efforts, including:

• Connecting with multilingual learner families to better understand strengths and areas for growth as new families join the district

• Gathering feedback from families, students, and staff through rounding and conversations

Key topics currently identified include:

• Student behavior supports

• Addressing staff and family concerns

• Supporting staff wellbeing

Alignment with Connecticut School Climate Standards

Standard 5 – Restorative Systems and Equity
Promoting belonging through restorative practices, cultural responsiveness, and inclusive school communities.

---

Viking Voices: Listening to Our Community

East Lyme Public Schools uses the Satchel Pulse “Viking Voices” surveys to gather feedback from students, staff, and families.

Survey results help guide our improvement efforts and are shared with the community through:

• District Convocation presentations

• New Staff Orientation

• Website updates

• District communications

The District-Wide Culture and Climate Committee reviews the results and develops action steps based on the feedback we receive.

---

School Climate Committee

The District School Climate Improvement Plan is developed with input from the District-Wide Culture and Climate Committee, which includes representatives from across the school community.

School Climate Coordinator

Annaliese Spaziano, Assistant Superintendent

Committee Members

Teachers and Administrators
Carla Woitovich
Hamilton Hernandez
Sheryl Shyloski
Collin McIvor
Jeff Newton
Jeff Provost
Henry Kydd
Brian Kalkreuth
Danielle Schoman
Lisa Belisle
Claudine Kelly
Kristine Dishaw

Family Representative
Bonnie Dombrowski

Student Representatives
Noor Zahra
Ankita Basu
Darcy Dombrowski
Cameron DeNucci
Christopher Blakemore

Board of Education Representative
Bill Derry

---

Plan Approval

Plan Submission Date: December 1, 2025

This plan was developed in collaboration with the District-Wide Culture and Climate Committee and is available to the community through the East Lyme Public Schools website.

East Lyme High School

Culture and Climate Improvement Plan

2025–2026 School Year

East Lyme High School is committed to fostering a school environment where students and staff feel supported, connected, and empowered to succeed. This plan outlines the school’s priorities for strengthening staff wellbeing, supporting student belonging, and increasing family engagement.

The plan is informed by Satchel Pulse climate survey data, school-based data, and ongoing collaboration with district leadership and the District-Wide Culture and Climate Committee.

---

Our Areas of Focus

Staff Wellbeing

Survey Areas of Focus

• My workload does not affect my wellbeing 

• My workload does not negatively affect my family life 

2025–2026 Action Steps

East Lyme High School will continue supporting staff wellbeing through:

• Continued faculty dialogue and feedback opportunities regarding workload and wellbeing

• Gathering input through faculty meetings, department meetings, and informal feedback channels

• Monitoring the impact of school initiatives and instructional expectations to ensure they remain manageable and sustainable

The school will also maintain structures that support planning and collaboration, including:

• The refined Wednesday meeting schedule that provides time for collaboration and shared school goals

• Clear communication of grading timelines and major academic deadlines to support teacher planning

Additional supports will include:

• EdCamp professional learning opportunities focused on emotional resilience, workload management, and instructional efficiency

• Sharing strategies that support sustainable work practices

• Revising teacher duty assignments to support role satisfaction and staff wellbeing

Staff community and morale will continue to be supported through:

• Staff social events and traditions

• Recognition opportunities

• Staff spirit days and collegial connection activities

---

School Management and Safety

Survey Areas of Focus

• Inappropriate student behavior is well managed

• Inappropriate behavior is managed swiftly

2025–2026 Action Steps

East Lyme High School will strengthen communication and shared understanding of behavior response systems by:

• Continuing faculty training on the use of Infinite Campus behavior referrals

• Improving teacher access to notifications when behavior incidents are resolved

The school will also increase transparency around behavior trends by:

• Reviewing schoolwide behavior and discipline data with faculty

• Sharing trends and updates to provide greater visibility into how student behavior is addressed

Professional learning will continue to support staff in responding to student behavior through:

• EdCamp sessions focused on classroom management and emerging student issues

• Training on student communication trends

• Strategies for responding to microaggressions

• Approaches to building productive relationships with challenging or disengaged students

---

School Life and Student Engagement

Survey Area of Focus

• Students feel attendance is important (5.6)

2025–2026 Action Steps

East Lyme High School will strengthen student engagement and attendance through:

• Proactive monitoring of attendance data using Infinite Campus

• Identification of students at risk of chronic absenteeism

• Collaboration with district partners through the MTSS audit to strengthen tiered supports and social-emotional interventions

The school will also:

• Maintain the Attendance Appeals Committee to review cases and ensure consistent implementation of expectations

• Review and update student handbook language regarding attendance expectations and credit requirements

• Collaborate with district leadership to ensure alignment with district policies

Communication efforts will reinforce the importance of attendance by:

• Highlighting attendance expectations in school newsletters, social media, and events

• Using advisory and student meetings to emphasize the connection between attendance, engagement, and academic success

Family partnerships will also support attendance by:

• Maintaining outreach to families when attendance concerns arise

• Collaborating with Youth Services, the School-Based Health Center, and other community partners to address barriers to attendance

---

Student Belonging and Voice

Survey Area of Focus

• I make a difference at the school

2025–2026 Action Steps

East Lyme High School will strengthen student voice and belonging through:

• Continued implementation of a Student Advisory Board representing a cross-section of the student population

• Structured discussions with the advisory board to identify actions students can help lead

The school will also conduct targeted student listening sessions with groups such as:

• Peer mentors

• Student government and club leaders

• Athletic captains

These conversations will provide deeper insight into student experiences and inform future climate initiatives.

---

Student Safety and Relationships

Survey Areas of Focus

• Students at my school are kind and respectful of each other

• If I witness unkind or harmful behavior, adults will take action

2025–2026 Action Steps

East Lyme High School will strengthen student relationships and safety by:

• Increasing student awareness of reporting pathways through advisory, the Morning Show, and school communications

• Encouraging students to report concerns through trusted adults, counselors, and anonymous reporting options

The school will also explore the development of shared schoolwide language around behavior expectations, potentially aligned to Viking Values, informed by feedback from students and staff.

Additional initiatives include:

• Displaying behavioral expectations throughout the school building

• Continuing development of the Peer Mentoring program to support a positive school climate

---

Student Recognition and Celebration

Survey Area of Focus

• Awards and rewards are given regularly

2025–2026 Action Steps

East Lyme High School will develop a coordinated student recognition framework aligned to the Vision of the Graduate, recognizing qualities such as:

• Collaboration

• Communication

• Leadership

• Growth

The school will also expand opportunities for staff to recognize students for effort, growth, and positive contributions by:

• Continuing initiatives such as Karla’s Cookie Coupons

• Encouraging recognition of character and community contributions in addition to academic achievement

Student recognition will become more visible through:

• The Morning Show

• ELHS Saga

• School announcements

• Digital communication platforms

Student voice will also guide the development of recognition systems through feedback from the Student Advisory Board and student leadership groups.

---

Family Engagement and Communication

Focus Area

Increasing family participation in climate surveys and strengthening family engagement.

Recent Progress

Participation improved significantly this year, increasing from 10 responses in the spring survey to 97 responses in the fall survey.

2025–2026 Action Steps

East Lyme High School will continue efforts to increase family participation by:

• Promoting surveys through school events, newsletters, and digital platforms

• Using QR codes at school events and in communications to make participation easier

• Encouraging participation during conferences, performances, and Back-to-School Night

Survey feedback will be analyzed to identify themes related to:

• Communication

• Student experience

• School climate

These insights will inform the work of the Student Belonging & Experience Committee and the Culture & Climate Committee.

East Lyme Middle School

Culture and Climate Improvement Plan

2025–2026 School Year

East Lyme Middle School is committed to fostering a school community where students and staff feel safe, supported, and connected. This plan outlines the school’s priorities for strengthening staff wellbeing, supporting student relationships, and increasing family engagement.

The plan is informed by Satchel Pulse climate survey data, school-based data, and collaboration with district leadership and the District-Wide Culture and Climate Committee.

---

Our Areas of Focus

Staff Wellbeing

Survey Areas of Focus

• My workload does not affect my wellbeing

• My workload does not negatively affect my family life

• I am satisfied with my work/life balance

2025–2026 Action Steps

East Lyme Middle School will continue supporting staff wellbeing through:

• Dedicated time during Professional Growth and Collaboration

• PLC and department collaboration time

• Daily team meeting time to support planning and communication

• Structured learning walks that support professional growth

• Release time and professional learning opportunities for training and curriculum planning

Staff morale and connection will also be supported through initiatives such as:

• Sunshine luncheons and staff spirit weeks

• Viking Victories recognition

• Team-building activities during faculty meetings

• Staff birthday recognition

• Staff raffles and appreciation events

• Building-wide breakfasts, lunches, and ice cream socials

---

District Leadership and Staff Support

Survey Areas of Focus

• District and school leaders understand the needs of students

• Issues raised by staff are addressed by leadership

• Staff have the resources needed to do their job

2025–2026 Action Steps

East Lyme Middle School will strengthen communication and collaboration between staff and leadership through:

• Office hours with district leaders and ELMS administrators

• Regular check-ins with new faculty, team leaders, and the School Improvement Team

• Continued collaboration through data teams and MTSS review processes

• Ongoing work related to ELMS rebranding and school identity

• Continued implementation of restorative practices within discipline systems

School leadership will also continue advocating for faculty needs related to professional learning, programming, staffing, and scheduling.

---

Student Relationships and Belonging

Survey Areas of Focus

• I have lots of friends at school

• If I witness unkind or harmful behavior at school, adults will take action

• Students at my school are kind and respectful of each other

• Most students get along well

2025–2026 Action Steps

East Lyme Middle School will continue strengthening student relationships and belonging through:

• Revisiting schoolwide expectations at the start of the school year and throughout the year

• Mid-year team-building activities to strengthen peer relationships

• Advisory lessons focused on relationship building and relationship mapping

• Restorative practices to support peer-to-peer and student-to-staff relationships

The school will also continue recognizing student achievements through:

• Team-based recognition programs each trimester, including Rising Star awards and 100 percent attendance recognition

• Morning News recognitions such as Viking Vouchers for Excellence, Leadership, Mindfulness, and Service

• School communications such as the “5 at 5” updates that highlight student accomplishments and school initiatives

Student voice will also continue to play an important role through:

• Student shadow experiences

• Student leadership feedback on survey questions and school programming

• Student participation on district committees

• Opportunities to collaborate with Salem School students

---

Family Engagement and Survey Participation

Focus Area

Increasing family participation in climate surveys.

Context

East Lyme Middle School serves approximately 705 households, and the school will continue efforts to increase participation and engagement.

2025–2026 Action Steps

East Lyme Middle School will strengthen family engagement by:

• Sharing survey findings with the PTA and school committees

• Providing opportunities for families to complete surveys during Student-Led Conferences

• Posting QR codes throughout the school building to make surveys accessible

• Sharing ongoing updates through the Infinite Campus portal, PTA communications, and ELMS social media

Additional communication channels will include:

• The ELMS Morning News program

• Parent Advisory meetings

• The “5 at 5” communications

---

Continuous Improvement

East Lyme Middle School will continue working with building and district committees to:

• Identify areas for improvement

• Implement strategies that strengthen school climate

• Celebrate successes within the school community

Lillie B. Haynes School

Culture and Climate Improvement Plan

2025–2026 School Year

Lillie B. Haynes School is committed to fostering a school environment where students and staff feel safe, supported, and connected. This plan outlines the school’s priorities for strengthening staff wellbeing, supporting student relationships, and increasing family engagement.

The plan is informed by Satchel Pulse climate survey data, school-based data, and ongoing collaboration with the District-Wide Culture and Climate Committee.

---

Our Areas of Focus

Staff Wellbeing

Survey Areas of Focus

• My workload does not affect my wellbeing

• My workload does not negatively affect my family life

• I am satisfied with my work/life balance

2025–2026 Action Steps

Lillie B. Haynes School will continue supporting staff wellbeing through:

• Wednesday Teaching and Learning meetings used for planning

• Professional development days focused on planning and strategic professional learning

• Opportunities for staff to visit other classrooms and schools, including guided walkthroughs with the Wit & Wisdom representative to support implementation

• Opportunities for staff across the district to reflect on curriculum modules and share strategies

• “Underground spirit days” and staff gatherings to support morale

• Opportunities for team building and wellness activities during professional learning days

• The Friday Hive Five PBIS initiative, which highlights staff appreciation and gratitude

---

School Safety and Behavior Management

Survey Areas of Focus

• Inappropriate student behavior is well managed

• Inappropriate student behavior is managed swiftly

2025–2026 Action Steps

Lillie B. Haynes School will strengthen systems that support student behavior and school safety through:

• Streamlining the Office Discipline Referral workflow, including intake, acknowledgement, and follow-up with referring staff

• Continued implementation of PBIS frameworks

• Use of MTSS Social, Emotional, and Behavioral referrals and progress monitoring systems

• Restorative circles and conferences when appropriate

• Progressive discipline practices when necessary

• Addition of a Dean of Students for the remainder of the 2025–2026 school year to support a positive school climate for all stakeholders

---

Student Health, Wellbeing, and Belonging

Survey Areas of Focus

• I can talk to trusted adults at school

• Students at my school are kind and respectful of each other 

2025–2026 Action Steps

Lillie B. Haynes School will continue strengthening student relationships and belonging through:

• Relationship mapping with staff and trusted adult surveys to ensure every student has at least one trusted adult in the building

• Using data from relationship mapping, MTSS, attendance, and discipline referrals to develop support plans for students who may need additional support

• Allocating time during Teaching and Learning meetings to review data and plan supports

• PBIS committee analysis of behavior data to identify schoolwide trends

• Classroom lessons and visits from administrators focused on school expectations and community building

• Implementation of Choose Love social-emotional learning lessons

• Classroom routines that recognize kindness and gratitude, such as morning meeting compliments, end-of-day reflection, and mindful moments

• Implementation of the K–4 eXplore Block (XB) to support student engagement and connection

---

Family Engagement and Survey Participation

Current Participation

• 59 families completed the Satchel Pulse survey

• 57 families submitted short paper-based questionnaires (56 positive responses and 1 neutral)

2025–2026 Action Steps

Lillie B. Haynes School will increase family engagement and survey participation by:

• Sharing survey data with the PTA and Culture and Climate Committee

• Creating multiple opportunities for families to complete surveys during school events such as concerts, Back-to-School Night, and conferences

• Posting QR codes throughout the school building to make surveys easily accessible

• Hosting an information table at Back-to-School Night

• Sharing ongoing flyers and Sway communications

• Partnering with the PTA and Parent Advisory Committee to support outreach

• Sending message blasts and exploring incentives to help reach a school participation goal

---

Continuous Improvement

Lillie B. Haynes School will continue working with building-based committees and district leadership to:

• Identify areas needing improvement

• Develop action steps that strengthen school culture and climate

• Celebrate successes and positive practices within the school community

Niantic Center School

Culture and Climate Improvement Plan

2025–2026 School Year

Niantic Center School is committed to creating a learning environment where students and staff feel safe, supported, and connected. This plan outlines the school's priorities for strengthening relationships, supporting staff wellbeing, and engaging families in building a positive school climate.

The plan is informed by data from the Satchel Pulse climate surveys, feedback from staff and families, and ongoing collaboration with the District-Wide Culture and Climate Committee.

---

Our Areas of Focus

Staff Well-Being

Survey Areas of Focus

• My workload does not affect my well-being

• I am satisfied with my work/life balance 

2025–2026 Action Steps

Niantic Center School will continue supporting staff wellbeing through:

• Professional development time to plan and implement curriculum

• Wednesday Teaching and Learning meetings used for planning

• Professional development days focused on planning and strategic learning

• Opportunities for staff to visit other classrooms or schools

• Preparation and organization of Wit & Wisdom materials and resources

• Opportunities for staff to connect and collaborate

• Staff recognition initiatives and morale-building activities

• Opportunities for staff to come together across the district for end-of-module reflection

• Monthly check-ins during School Improvement Team meetings

• “Underground spirit weeks” to support staff morale

• Continued development of Curriculum Fellows Implementation Guides

---

School Safety and Behavior Supports

Survey Areas of Focus

• Inappropriate student behavior is well managed

• Inappropriate student behavior is managed swiftly

2025–2026 Action Steps

Niantic Center School will continue strengthening schoolwide behavior supports through:

• Schoolwide expectations aligned with Respectful Behaviors

• Use of restorative practices to address conflict and build relationships

• Clear office referral procedures and documentation

• MTSS behavior referral processes

• Support from lead teachers to reinforce expectations and discipline systems

• Re-norming expectations through Responsive Classroom practices

• Faculty meeting time dedicated to establishing common definitions and expectations

• Ongoing review of the Behavior Intervention Plan with the school BCBA

• Executive functioning supports for students

---

Student Relationships and Belonging

Survey Area of Focus

• Students at my school are respectful of each other

2025–2026 Action Steps

Niantic Center School will support positive student relationships through:

• Analysis of Satchel Pulse survey data by the SEL Committee and School Improvement Team

• Ongoing professional development focused on student interactions and relationships

• Development of a school-based Climate Action Plan

• Scheduled time for Morning Meeting to support community building

• Implementation of the Choose Love social-emotional learning curriculum

• Relationship mapping activities with staff

• Schoolwide and Town Meetings to explicitly teach social-emotional skills and school expectations

• Restorative conferences and circles when conflict occurs

• Communication with families through Sway updates

• Development of a school culture and climate committee representing multiple stakeholder groups

• Participation in district culture and climate initiatives

• Student clubs that empower student voice, including leadership groups, tech squad, and run club

• Student groups that help explain and promote the climate survey

• Student focus groups and classroom lessons connected to action plan goals

• Student shadow experiences through the DEI cohort initiative

• Mentorship club opportunities

• School community events such as the student walk-a-thon and Veterans Day celebrations

---

Family Engagement and Survey Participation

Focus Area

Increasing family participation in climate surveys.

Current Participation

85 families completed the Satchel Pulse survey.

2025–2026 Action Steps

Niantic Center School will increase family engagement and survey participation by:

• Sharing survey data with the PTA and school committees

• Creating multiple opportunities for families to complete surveys during school events such as concerts, open houses, and conferences

• Posting QR codes throughout the building to make surveys easily accessible

• Hosting information tables at Back-to-School Night

• Sharing ongoing flyers and Sway communications

• Partnering with the PTA and Parent Advisory Committee to support outreach

• Sending message blasts and encouraging participation toward a schoolwide goal

• Providing hard-copy surveys during conferences for families who prefer paper options

---

Continuous Improvement

Niantic Center School will continue collecting feedback from building-based committees to:

• Identify areas needing improvement

• Develop action steps that strengthen school climate

• Recognize and celebrate successful practices within the school community

Flanders Elementary School

Culture and Climate Improvement Plan

2025–2026 School Year

Flanders Elementary School is committed to creating a school environment where students and staff feel safe, supported, and connected. This plan outlines the school’s priorities for strengthening staff wellbeing, supporting positive student relationships, and engaging families as partners in building a strong school community.

The plan is informed by Satchel Pulse climate survey data, feedback from students, staff, and families, and collaboration with the District-Wide Culture and Climate Committee.

---

Our Areas of Focus

Staff Wellbeing

Survey Areas of Focus

• My workload does not affect my well-being

• My workload does not negatively affect my family life

2025–2026 Action Steps

Flanders Elementary School will continue supporting staff wellbeing through:

• Professional development time dedicated to planning and implementing curriculum

• Wednesday Teaching and Learning meetings used for planning and collaboration

• Professional development days focused on strategic professional learning

• Opportunities for staff to visit other classrooms and schools

• Preparation and organization of Wit & Wisdom materials and resources

• Opportunities for staff to connect during quieter times of the school year

• Creation of a shared staff collection of podcasts, music, and other resources that support wellness

Additional initiatives will include:

• Opportunities for staff across the district to reflect on curriculum modules and share strategies

• Positive office referrals recognizing both staff and students

• Mindfulness professional learning opportunities

• Faculty goal-setting sessions focused on improving work-life balance

• Optional professional learning opportunities such as the Switch book study

Staff morale and connection will also be supported through:

• Teacher recognition efforts such as weekly email shout-outs and small appreciation gestures

• Monthly staff breakfasts and staff spirit days

• Curriculum Fellows Implementation Guides

• Monthly check-ins during School Improvement Team meetings

---

School Safety and Behavior Supports

Survey Areas of Focus

• Inappropriate student behavior is well managed

• Inappropriate student behavior is managed swiftly

2025–2026 Action Steps

Flanders Elementary School will strengthen schoolwide behavior supports through:

• Continued implementation of STARS as the schoolwide expectations framework

• Use of restorative circles and restorative practices to address conflict

• A clear office referral process and documentation system

• MTSS behavior referrals and tiered supports

Additional supports include:

• Use of lead teachers to support behavior expectations and discipline systems

• Re-norming practices through Responsive Classroom strategies

• Faculty meeting time dedicated to establishing shared definitions of tiered interventions

• Professional learning led by the school psychologist on Tier 1 behavioral strategies and interventions

• Immediate adult assistance radio protocols to ensure quick response when support is needed

---

Student Relationships and Belonging

Survey Area of Focus

• Students at my school are respectful of each other 

2025–2026 Action Steps

Flanders Elementary School will continue strengthening student relationships through:

• Analysis of behavior data by the SEL and Culture & Climate Committees to identify trends and guide decision-making

• Analysis of Satchel Pulse survey data and development of a school-based climate action plan

• Use of relationship mapping with staff and students

Student voice will be incorporated through:

• Student focus groups to better understand survey results and develop classroom lessons

• Student shadow experiences through the DEI Cohort

Additional initiatives include:

• Classroom lessons facilitated by the school psychologist and social worker

• Reviewing survey questions with students to deepen understanding

• Implementation of Choose Love social-emotional learning lessons

• Be Kind lessons and activities led by student leaders

Daily classroom practices will reinforce a positive school culture through:

• Morning Meeting compliments and recognition

• End-of-day reflection and mindful moments

• Dedicated time for Morning Meetings in the school schedule

Schoolwide initiatives will also support student connection and engagement, including:

• eXplore Block (XB) enrichment opportunities

• Sharing SEL information with families through Sway

• All-school meetings focused on STARS expectations and celebrations

• Student clubs such as leadership and mileage clubs

---

Family Engagement and Survey Participation

Survey Participation

Family participation in the climate survey has increased over time:

• 31 responses in 2024

• 62 responses in 2025

• 87 responses through paper surveys in 2025

2025–2026 Action Steps

Flanders Elementary School will continue strengthening family engagement by:

• Sharing survey results with the PTA and school committees

• Creating opportunities for families to complete surveys during school events such as concerts, open houses, and conferences

• Providing paper-based questionnaires for families who prefer a non-digital option

Additional outreach strategies include:

• Posting survey QR codes throughout the school building

• Hosting information tables at Back-to-School Night

• Sharing ongoing updates through weekly Sways

• Partnering with the PTA and Parent Advisory Committee to support outreach

• Communicating progress toward climate goals and timelines through Sway updates

---

Continuous Improvement

Flanders Elementary School will continue working with school and district committees to:

• Identify areas needing improvement

• Implement strategies that strengthen school climate

• Celebrate successes and positive practices within the school community