ECASD shares positive student climate survey results at Northwoods Elementary meeting

The Eau Claire Area School District (ECASD) Board of Education meeting on May 19, 2025, focused on the ongoing development of a supportive learning environment and the results of the recent student climate survey. Executive Director Van Fleet, along with Northwoods Elementary Principal Luke Stordahl and second-grade teacher Grace Hallis, presented key findings and initiatives aimed at enhancing student experiences across the district.

The meeting highlighted the ECASD's commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment as part of its Educational Multi-Tiered System of Supports (EMLSS) framework. This framework aims to provide all students with access, opportunity, and success through a layered approach to education. The presentation emphasized the importance of engagement, safety, and a positive environment as foundational elements for student achievement.

A significant portion of the discussion centered on the results of the student climate survey conducted in early March. The survey serves as a key performance indicator for assessing the district's progress in creating a diverse and inclusive community. The results showed promising improvements in students' perceptions of respect and positive relationships among peers. For instance, middle school students reported a 3% increase in feelings of respect, while high school students of color experienced a notable 15% increase in their perception of respect.

The survey results also indicated that students are increasingly engaging in conversations about empathy and understanding diverse viewpoints. Middle school students reported a 6.7% increase in discussions about feelings, while high school students saw an 8.2% gain. These trends suggest a growing culture of emotional intelligence and inclusivity within the schools.

In terms of ethical behavior, the survey revealed that 58.1% of middle school students believe their peers are treated equally, marking a 3% increase. Among high school students of color, this figure rose dramatically by 15%. The data reflects the positive impact of the district's efforts to promote diversity and inclusion.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ECASD's dedication to continuous improvement in creating supportive learning environments. The encouraging survey results indicate progress in fostering respectful interactions and a sense of belonging among students, particularly those from historically marginalized groups. The district plans to build on these successes while acknowledging that further growth is needed, especially at the high school level.