In Summit Public Schools, we remain committed to achieving an equitable and inclusive school culture where everyone feels safe and accepted, has a true sense of belonging, and feels their identity and lived experiences are valued. To support this work, it is important that we hear from you. Your voice matters to us.
As we have previously shared, we are proactively participating in an equity audit for the purpose of identifying areas of strength and areas that may need attention within our system. Summit has partnered with an education market research firm, Hanover Research, in undertaking this districtwide effort. Our goal is to ensure that all students, staff, and families feel welcomed and are able to participate in our educational community and to ensure that each student has equitable opportunities to reach their fullest potential.
We will invite parents, staff, and students in grades 6-12 to participate in a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Survey between May 31 and June 14.
About Summit Schools Equity and Inclusion Survey
Q: How was this survey developed?
A: The Equity & Inclusion survey was developed by Hanover Research, a highly respected market research firm. To develop the survey instrument, content experts and survey methodologists worked collaboratively to identify key and recurrent themes. Hanover examined relevant literature, resources developed by organizations dedicated to DEI, and trends in DEI instruments. Based on this comprehensive review, the following core sections were identified to measure in Summit:
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Beliefs about Equity
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School Environment
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Academic Environment
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Social Environment
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Staff Perception
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Engagement & Outreach
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District Priorities
Q: Who is Hanover Research and why were they chosen as a strategic partner in Summit’s diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging efforts?
A: After a thorough and comprehensive search, Hanover Research was chosen to provide an objective lens for Summit’s equity auditing, allowing us to expand the depth and breadth of our efforts. Hanover Research provides high-quality, custom research and analytics that help clients in the corporate, higher education, and K-12 education sectors make informed decisions, identify and seize opportunities, and heighten their effectiveness.
Q: Is this instrument valid?
A: Hanover’s team of survey methodologists and content experts have tested the survey for face validity and construct validity in order to reduce measurement error. Reducing measurement error refers to the ability to ensure that individual survey items measure what they intend to measure.
Q: Will my elementary school student be taking this survey?
A: No. This survey was designed for students in grades 6-12, school staff, and parents of students.
Q: Is my student required to take this survey?
A: No. Students in grades 6-12 will be provided with structured time during the school day to take the survey, but there is no requirement to participate in this survey.