Waunakee School District launches Elevate program for student feedback and learning environment enhancement

The Waunakee Community School District's Board of Education convened on June 2, 2025, to discuss the implementation and impact of the Elevate student voice survey, a tool designed to enhance educational experiences by incorporating student feedback into classroom practices. This meeting highlighted the importance of student engagement and the ongoing efforts to refine learning environments based on direct input from students.

The Elevate survey, which takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes to complete, is administered multiple times throughout the academic year. Following each survey, educators receive results the following Monday, allowing for timely discussions about the findings. This immediate feedback loop is crucial for fostering a responsive educational atmosphere where teachers can address student concerns and suggestions effectively.

A key aspect of the Elevate initiative is the emphasis on dialogue between teachers and students. Educators are encouraged to engage in meaningful conversations about survey results, focusing on areas for improvement rather than jumping straight into problem-solving. This approach aims to elevate student voices, ensuring that their perspectives are considered in shaping their educational experiences. Teachers are reminded to maintain a balance between student input and the educational objectives of their courses, fostering an environment where students feel heard while still adhering to curricular goals.

The meeting also addressed the adaptation of the Elevate survey for different grade levels, particularly the introduction of new learning conditions for grades 3 through 5. This pilot program aims to standardize the language used to discuss learning environments across various age groups, enhancing clarity and consistency in feedback. The survey's design allows for the aggregation of data, enabling educators to identify trends and equity gaps among different student demographics, including those with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

As the district moves forward, the focus will remain on utilizing survey data to inform instructional practices and enhance student engagement. Teachers will continue to collaborate with students to co-construct action plans based on survey insights, ensuring that the learning environment evolves in response to student needs. The Elevate initiative represents a significant step toward fostering a more inclusive and responsive educational framework within the Waunakee Community School District, ultimately aiming to improve student satisfaction and learning outcomes.