A customer satisfaction survey for families with children in Department of Defense Dependents Schools-Europe is scheduled to be conducted from Saturday through Feb. 28.
The online survey "provides valuable feedback to [The Department of Defense Education Activity] from its most important customers — students and parents — about the quality of education it provides and areas needing improvement," according to a DODDS-Europe press release issued Thursday.
Students in grades 4-12 and parents or guardians of all students in pre-kindergarten through high school are being asked to participate in the survey, which is voluntary.
Previously, DODEA staff also participated in the survey. This year, a separate employee satisfaction survey will be given in March.
"The surveys were developed through a review process of various groups, Area offices, superintendents, principals, Education Directorate staff members at the DoDEA headquarters, and external agencies," the release said.
The 2008 customer satisfaction survey "contains more parent/student specific questions, particularly with regard to guidance and counseling," the release said.
"We now have a Guidance and Counseling Task Force to address concerns in this area," said Frank O’Gara, DODEA public affairs. The task force was formed as a result of previous surveys.
The survey also led to increased roles for school advisory councils, which provide a voice for parents, and for liaison officers to help address school issues, O’Gara said.
"Safety and security upgrades continue to ensure safe school environments, a top concern of parents in the survey. Although they are satisfied, it is an ongoing challenge," O’Gara said.
The survey is available at www.dodea.edu. and takes about 20 minutes to complete. Parents without Internet access can contact their child’s school to use an on-campus computer, the release said.
"Information derived from the surveys will be used to improve planning efforts at all levels throughout DODEA. Schools, districts, and areas will use the survey results to gain insight into the satisfaction levels of sponsors and students, which is one of many measures used for future planning of programs and services DODEA offers," the release said.
For more information, contact your local school or go to the DODEA Web site.
