In a pivotal step toward selecting a new superintendent, on Sept. 23 the School Committee finalized a community-wide survey designed to gather input on the district’s leadership priorities.
“Your responses will play a key role in shaping this important decision,” said Chair Erin Gibbons, quoting from the survey. “We are asking for your input on what qualities, experiences, and priorities matter most to you for our district’s leadership and future success.”
The committee emphasized the importance of anonymity and broad accessibility in the survey’s design. After deliberation, the committee selected Google Forms for its user-friendly interface and ability to randomize questions without requiring participants to sign in or provide personal email addresses.
“We want to make sure the survey is accessible to everyone and that people feel comfortable sharing their honest opinions,” noted committee member Erin Mueller. “It’s crucial that we capture the diverse perspectives within our community.”
Discussion also centered on preventing multiple responses from a single individual without discouraging participation. The committee opted for an honor system, requesting respondents to complete the survey only once.
“We trust our community to respect this process,” noted committee member Betsy Cullen.
Key topics in the survey include ranking the most important professional experiences and leadership qualities for the incoming superintendent. The committee debated adding “ensuring academic achievement and excellence within the district” as a priority task.
“I think it’s important that we ensure ongoing academic excellence,” Cullen said. “It’s something that’s very much on the minds of our community.”
The survey also includes a question gauging whether respondents believe the district is headed in the right direction.
“We have a rare opportunity to take the temperature of the community,” Cullen added. “It’s valuable feedback as we move forward.”
To maximize outreach, the committee plans to distribute the survey through various channels, including school newsletters, social media, parent-teacher organizations, and community forums. Flyers with QR codes will be available at upcoming events such as the elementary school curriculum nights.
“We’re aiming for as broad a reach as possible,” said committee member Christina Rodrigo. “It’s important that we hear from parents, students, staff, and other stakeholders.”
Committee member Kate Sambuco highlighted the technical preparations for the survey’s launch.
“I’ll create a flyer with a QR code so people can easily access the survey,” she said. “We’ll also ensure the survey is mobile-friendly.”
The survey will remain open until Oct. 5 at 8 p.m., after which time the committee will analyze the results. The committee plans to discuss the findings at its meeting on Oct. 9.
“Your feedback will help us understand the needs and priorities of the Wayland Public Schools community,” Gibbons emphasized. “We encourage everyone to take a few minutes to complete the survey.”Residents can access the survey through the Wayland School Committee’s website and social media pages. For additional comments or questions, community members are invited to reach out via email at school_committee@waylandps.org.
