Academic Quality is Top of Mind for Parents

Academics

The Center for Governmental Research in Rochester (CGR) was asked to design, administer and analyze a survey that quantified perceptions of Catholic schools that shape families’ decisions about enrollment. The results will be used to better inform and focus school planning and communications/marketing efforts.

More than 5,000 surveys were sent out to three core groups of families: those who have children currently enrolled in a Catholic school; those who had children in a Catholic school but exited in the last two years; and those whose children are enrolled in faith formation classes at one of our parishes, but are not enrolled in a Catholic school. The confidential surveys asked about perceptions of quality, services and curriculum, including views on how our schools compare to their available public school option or other educational choices. More than 1,200 surveys were completed and returned.

Based on the survey, academics are the primary “product” that parents are looking for when choosing a school for their children. More than 80% of respondents who have children currently enrolled in a Catholic school are satisfied with their school’s academic program. In addition, 75% of enrolled parents believe that Catholic schools provide a better educational product than public schools. These numbers dip significantly among exited parents and the non-enrolled.

“An overwhelming majority of our parents believe that their children are receiving a quality education in our Catholic schools,” said Superintendent of Catholic Schools, Anne Willkens Leach. “Collectively, we need to do a better job marketing our demonstrated academic achievement to the general public.”

Other highlights of the survey responses include:

  • A strong majority of all three respondent groups believe that Catholic schools do a better job instilling a sense of morals and values than public schools
  • 67% feel that the schools could benefit from a stronger connection with the parish (By 2012, all diocesan schools will be parish-run schools)

In addition to increased marketing of demonstrated achievement, CGR recommended engaging principals, teachers and parents in a sustained discussion about academic quality, develop a protocol for self-assessment for each school, and the development of an annual student and parent satisfaction survey.

“The collective insight of parents will enable us to be more responsive and strategic in meeting the school needs of parents and families, “ said Willkens Leach.