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Survey: district sees gains in student connectedness and participation but mental‑health needs remain
Summary
The district’s California Healthy Kids Survey results show improved connectedness and meaningful participation at several sites — notably two pilot schools — but staff said chronic sadness and mental‑health concerns persist and will require continued supports.
District staff presented results from this year’s California Healthy Kids Survey, reporting increases in measures of student connectedness, meaningful participation and reduced fear of fights at both elementary and middle levels.
Dr. Mara Edia Peltz and colleagues highlighted two pilot schools where project‑based learning and increased student leadership coincided with double‑digit gains in connectedness and academic motivation. "At LEAD and Beersford we saw big increases in students saying they feel connected to an adult at school," a presenter said, linking the gains to shifts in instructional approach and student leadership opportunities.
Staff also cautioned that mental‑health needs remain elevated: while some metrics improved, the survey continues to show a portion of students reporting frequent sadness. Presenters noted the district’s layered mental‑health supports and recommended continued investment in staff training, restorative practices and accessible counseling.
The board thanked presenters and discussed how survey findings to inform LCAP priorities and site spending. Principals who piloted the approaches said early assessment and new classroom configurations (including furniture and project‑based designs) helped support student engagement.
