Survey shows parents support revised book-club permission form in West Bend
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Summary
District staff reported results from a survey of 151 families who participated in recent book clubs: 54% said the updated permission letter is much clearer and 83% said the form provides enough information for informed decisions. District will continue using the revised form while exploring opt-out simplifications.
Aaron Faust, curriculum coordinator, presented the results of a parent survey about updated book-club permission letters and forms at the committee—s Dec. 2 meeting.
Faust said the survey — sent the week of Oct. 27 to classes that participated in book club — drew 151 responses, with the majority from middle-school families (47% seventh grade, 25% eighth grade). On clarity, 54% of respondents said the revised permission letter was "much clearer" and 46% said it was "about the same." On whether the form provided enough information to make an informed choice, 83% said "yes, definitely," 13.2% said "yes, somewhat," and 3% said they were unsure or needed more information.
When asked which version they preferred, 48% chose the updated letter, 1% preferred last year—s version and 51% said they simply appreciated getting information. Faust summarized open-ended comments as showing high trust in teachers, appreciation for transparency, and a small minority concerned about content appropriateness. The district will continue to use the revised permission slip and consider whether a simplified opt-out option or a broader "select any book" choice is feasible.
Board members responded positively to the results and had no further questions. The committee adjourned at 5:38 p.m.