MN Student Survey

This week, some of our Owatonna students participated in the MN Student Survey. I wrote about this survey previously on 1/6/2025 after members from Steele County Public Health came to talk to the board. This is what I wrote at that time:

“Two members of Steele County Public Health presented information regarding the Minnesota Student Survey. This is a voluntary survey given to students in grades 5, 8, 9, and 11. Schools can choose to opt-out, as well as parents or students can choose to opt-out if desired. The survey is given every 3 years. The survey addresses demographics, school attendance, but mainly health behaviors and risks. Past survey results can be viewed on the MN Department of Health site: https://www.health.state.mn.us/data/mchs/surveys/mss/datatables.html#educationalsetting“

My 9th grader notified me on Wednesday this week (5/7/2025) that they were given the survey. I know that parents are to be notified prior to students being given a survey, but I didn’t remember seeing any notification. I then searched my email and read through an email that had been sent the previous day, Tuesday 5/6/2025, with notification that students were going to be taking this survey the following day.  This email notification also included a link to a form allowing parents to opt out if desired.  This is copied from the email sent to OHS students’ parents/guardians:

“Wednesday, May 7, 2025 – During COMPASS from 9:25-9:55 – MN Student Survey for 9th and 11th graders.  The Minnesota Student Survey (MSS) is the primary source of comprehensive data on young people at the state, county, and local level in Minnesota, and is the only consistent source of statewide data on their health and well-being. It provides valuable information regarding issues vital to the health, safety, and academic success of young people. The survey is voluntary, confidential, and anonymous on the part of 9th and 11th grade students. Please read the attached letter that outlines the MN Student Survey and your options as a parent.”

I was hoping to notify parents and blog-readers ahead of time when I received notification of the planned survey date so that I could remind you all, but with this short notice, I’m sorry I was not able to do this. There are many sensitive questions that I believe parents need to be aware of. Please review and be informed for your children. The survey is given every 3 years. Some districts in Minnesota opt out of the survey. There are certainly risks and benefits that need to be carefully considered when these sensitive topics are brought into schools. Know that you can decide for your children whether or not they should take the survey… next time.

Happy Mother’s Day to all women, as we each have opportunities love and nurture the children in our lives. Soli Deo Gloria!