Results Details

 

Significant Factors

The following results summary provides a quick snapshot for data review and inquiry. Questions included are derived from statistical analyses of the responses designed to present the most salient themes across the survey. These themes can help quickly identify broad areas of strengths and directions for improvement before individual questions are explored. All averages are on a 1 to 5 scale with 1 being the lowest.

Factor Average**  
Leadership

This is the average of the 7 questions from the leadership and empowerment sections of the survey that were most important in explaining the presence of leadership conditions that contribute to trusting, supportive environments, problem solving and decision making (Q4.1c, Q4.1d, Q4.1e, Q5.2b, Q5.3a, Q5.3b, Q5.3f).
 
3.79
3.31
Readiness

This is the average of the 7 questions from the school context and readiness section of the survey that were most important in explaining the effect of external influences on students ability to learn (Q7.2b, Q7.2c, Q7.2d, Q7.2e, Q7.2f, Q7.2g,Q7.2i) [note: a higher score indicates educators believe external factors play a stronger role on student learning].
 
2.50
3.41
Support for Professional Practice

This is the average of the 7 questions from the facilities and resources and professional development sections of the survey that were most important in explaining the quality of resources and support for professional learning and practice (Q3.1a, Q3.1b,Q3.1c, Q3.1d, Q3.1e, Q6.1,Q6.9).
 
3.87
3.16
Workload

This is the average of the 7 questions from the time section of the survey that were most important in explaining increases in workload for educators (Q2.9b, Q2.9c, Q2.9d, Q2.9e, Q2.9g, Q2.9i, Q2.9j).
 
3.53
4.10
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Detailed Report

Time
Q2.1 Please rate how strongly you agree or disagree with the following statements about the use of time in your school.
a. Teachers have reasonable class sizes.
Strongly disagree
23%
15%
Somewhat disagree
44%
26%
Neither disagree nor agree
7%
5%
Somewhat agree
23%
37%
Strongly agree
2%
18%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


b. Teachers have time available to collaborate with their colleagues.
Strongly disagree
15%
26%
Somewhat disagree
27%
29%
Neither disagree nor agree
5%
5%
Somewhat agree
44%
28%
Strongly agree
9%
11%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


c. The non-instructional time provided for teachers in my school is sufficient.
Strongly disagree
9%
23%
Somewhat disagree
26%
30%
Neither disagree nor agree
11%
11%
Somewhat agree
35%
27%
Strongly agree
19%
10%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


d. Teachers have sufficient instructional time to meet the needs of all students.
Strongly disagree
8%
17%
Somewhat disagree
32%
33%
Neither disagree nor agree
14%
10%
Somewhat agree
34%
30%
Strongly agree
12%
9%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


e. Teachers have sufficient instructional time to complete the curriculum for their subject(s) and/or grade.
Strongly disagree
7%
20%
Somewhat disagree
23%
33%
Neither disagree nor agree
8%
10%
Somewhat agree
43%
29%
Strongly agree
20%
8%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q2.3 In an average week of teaching, how much non-instructional time do YOU have available (not including time spent outside of the normal school day)?
None
0%
2%
Less than or equal to 3 hours
22%
31%
More than 3 hours but less than or equal to 5 hours
18%
38%
More than 5 hours but less than or equal to 10 hours
48%
27%
More than 10 hours
12%
3%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q2.3a Of these hours, how many are typically spent on supervisory duties?
None
47%
36%
Less than or equal to 3 hours
39%
50%
More than 3 hours but less than or equal to 5 hours
13%
11%
More than 5 hours but less than or equal to 10 hours
1%
2%
More than 10 hours
0%
0%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q2.3b Of these hours, how many are typically spent on routine paperwork?
None
2%
4%
Less than or equal to 3 hours
64%
59%
More than 3 hours but less than or equal to 5 hours
22%
27%
More than 5 hours but less than or equal to 10 hours
8%
8%
More than 10 hours
3%
2%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q2.5 In an average week of teaching, how many hours do YOU spend on school-related activities outside the regular school work day (before or after school, and/or on the weekend)?
None
0%
2%
Less than or equal to 3 hours
9%
12%
More than 3 hours but less than or equal to 5 hours
7%
18%
More than 5 hours but less than or equal to 10 hours
24%
30%
More than 10 hours
60%
39%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q2.5a Of these hours, how many are typically spent on voluntary activities (i.e., coaching, club sponsorship, etc.)?
None
40%
46%
Less than or equal to 3 hours
39%
37%
More than 3 hours but less than or equal to 5 hours
6%
9%
More than 5 hours but less than or equal to 10 hours
6%
5%
More than 10 hours
9%
4%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q2.9 Please rate how strongly you agree or disagree that the following factors significantly contribute to your overall workload.
a. Data management (attendance, report cards, etc.)
Strongly disagree
2%
2%
Somewhat disagree
11%
6%
Neither disagree nor agree
16%
15%
Somewhat agree
46%
44%
Strongly agree
25%
33%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


b. Student assessment requirements
Strongly disagree
1%
1%
Somewhat disagree
3%
3%
Neither disagree nor agree
11%
9%
Somewhat agree
32%
38%
Strongly agree
53%
49%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


c. Curriculum aligned with the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS)
Strongly disagree
12%
3%
Somewhat disagree
17%
4%
Neither disagree nor agree
38%
18%
Somewhat agree
23%
36%
Strongly agree
10%
39%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


d. Diverse student learning needs in the classroom
Strongly disagree
0%
1%
Somewhat disagree
10%
3%
Neither disagree nor agree
18%
9%
Somewhat agree
48%
35%
Strongly agree
24%
52%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


e. Student behavior
Strongly disagree
8%
3%
Somewhat disagree
28%
8%
Neither disagree nor agree
22%
13%
Somewhat agree
31%
35%
Strongly agree
11%
41%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


f. Class size increases
Strongly disagree
2%
6%
Somewhat disagree
6%
10%
Neither disagree nor agree
17%
26%
Somewhat agree
34%
31%
Strongly agree
41%
28%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


g. Required professional development
Strongly disagree
3%
3%
Somewhat disagree
16%
10%
Neither disagree nor agree
25%
25%
Somewhat agree
39%
40%
Strongly agree
16%
21%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


h. Required committee work
Strongly disagree
19%
9%
Somewhat disagree
15%
14%
Neither disagree nor agree
41%
39%
Somewhat agree
20%
28%
Strongly agree
5%
10%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


i. Compliance with No Child Left Behind
Strongly disagree
16%
3%
Somewhat disagree
17%
6%
Neither disagree nor agree
35%
26%
Somewhat agree
20%
35%
Strongly agree
11%
30%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


j. Getting students to expected levels of performance
Strongly disagree
2%
1%
Somewhat disagree
6%
1%
Neither disagree nor agree
18%
6%
Somewhat agree
40%
31%
Strongly agree
34%
61%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Facilities and Resources
Q3.1 Please rate how strongly you agree or disagree with the following statements about your school facilities and resources.
a. Teachers have sufficient access to appropriate instructional materials and resources.
Strongly disagree
2%
12%
Somewhat disagree
3%
23%
Neither disagree nor agree
2%
7%
Somewhat agree
36%
37%
Strongly agree
57%
21%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


b. Teachers have sufficient access to instructional technology, including computers, printers, software and internet access.
Strongly disagree
2%
16%
Somewhat disagree
7%
22%
Neither disagree nor agree
3%
6%
Somewhat agree
33%
31%
Strongly agree
54%
24%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


c. Teachers have access to reliable communication technology - including phones, faxes and email.
Strongly disagree
1%
12%
Somewhat disagree
2%
19%
Neither disagree nor agree
2%
7%
Somewhat agree
27%
33%
Strongly agree
69%
28%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


d. Teachers have sufficient training and support to fully utilize the available instructional technology.
Strongly disagree
7%
16%
Somewhat disagree
20%
28%
Neither disagree nor agree
13%
13%
Somewhat agree
37%
31%
Strongly agree
23%
12%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


e. Teachers have adequate professional space to work productively.
Strongly disagree
2%
15%
Somewhat disagree
10%
22%
Neither disagree nor agree
6%
11%
Somewhat agree
45%
32%
Strongly agree
37%
21%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


f. Teachers and staff work in a school environment that is physically safe.
Strongly disagree
1%
6%
Somewhat disagree
1%
12%
Neither disagree nor agree
1%
9%
Somewhat agree
23%
33%
Strongly agree
75%
40%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


g. Teachers and staff work in a school that is environmentally healthy.
Strongly disagree
0%
15%
Somewhat disagree
12%
24%
Neither disagree nor agree
11%
12%
Somewhat agree
40%
28%
Strongly agree
37%
20%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


h. Teachers and staff work in a school environment that is clean and well maintained.
Strongly disagree
0%
11%
Somewhat disagree
2%
20%
Neither disagree nor agree
3%
10%
Somewhat agree
25%
32%
Strongly agree
69%
28%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


i. Teachers have sufficient access to a broad range of professional support (professional) personnel.
Strongly disagree
0%
9%
Somewhat disagree
8%
19%
Neither disagree nor agree
4%
12%
Somewhat agree
39%
37%
Strongly agree
49%
23%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Empowerment
Q4.1 Please rate how strongly you agree or disagree with the following statements about empowerment in your school.
a. Teachers are meaningfully involved in decision making about educational issues.
Strongly disagree
2%
16%
Somewhat disagree
14%
26%
Neither disagree nor agree
8%
12%
Somewhat agree
49%
36%
Strongly agree
27%
10%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


b. Teachers are trusted to make sound professional decisions about instruction.
Strongly disagree
1%
10%
Somewhat disagree
4%
17%
Neither disagree nor agree
5%
9%
Somewhat agree
43%
41%
Strongly agree
48%
23%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


c. In this school we take steps to solve problems.
Strongly disagree
1%
8%
Somewhat disagree
12%
16%
Neither disagree nor agree
10%
13%
Somewhat agree
42%
41%
Strongly agree
35%
23%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


d. The faculty has an effective process for making group decisions to solve problems.
Strongly disagree
7%
14%
Somewhat disagree
24%
24%
Neither disagree nor agree
11%
18%
Somewhat agree
36%
32%
Strongly agree
22%
13%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


e. Teachers are recognized as educational experts.
Strongly disagree
2%
11%
Somewhat disagree
10%
18%
Neither disagree nor agree
8%
14%
Somewhat agree
43%
37%
Strongly agree
37%
21%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


f. Opportunities for career growth within the teaching profession (other than administration) are available to me (e.g., mentor, academic coach, etc.)
Strongly disagree
6%
9%
Somewhat disagree
10%
17%
Neither disagree nor agree
15%
21%
Somewhat agree
41%
36%
Strongly agree
28%
17%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


g. Teachers are encouraged to participate in professional leadership activities.
Strongly disagree
3%
8%
Somewhat disagree
7%
15%
Neither disagree nor agree
28%
27%
Somewhat agree
41%
32%
Strongly agree
20%
18%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


h. Teachers are supported by the community in which they teach.
Strongly disagree
0%
12%
Somewhat disagree
4%
22%
Neither disagree nor agree
10%
17%
Somewhat agree
52%
35%
Strongly agree
34%
14%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


i. Families help students achieve educational goals in this school.
Strongly disagree
0%
14%
Somewhat disagree
1%
26%
Neither disagree nor agree
9%
17%
Somewhat agree
45%
34%
Strongly agree
46%
9%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q4.2 Please indicate how large a role teachers have at your school in each of the following areas.
a. School improvement planning
No role at all
2%
8%
Small role
14%
29%
Moderate role
48%
38%
Large role
34%
23%
The primary role
2%
2%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


b. Shaping the schedule of the school day
No role at all
14%
27%
Small role
31%
33%
Moderate role
33%
25%
Large role
18%
13%
The primary role
3%
2%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


c. Deciding how the school budget will be spent
No role at all
30%
46%
Small role
50%
36%
Moderate role
17%
14%
Large role
3%
3%
The primary role
0%
0%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


d. Establishing and implementing policies related to student discipline
No role at all
4%
23%
Small role
30%
35%
Moderate role
43%
27%
Large role
21%
14%
The primary role
2%
2%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


e. Hiring of new teachers
No role at all
7%
38%
Small role
27%
33%
Moderate role
41%
20%
Large role
24%
9%
The primary role
2%
1%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


f. Determining the content of in-service professional development programs
No role at all
7%
29%
Small role
22%
37%
Moderate role
46%
23%
Large role
22%
10%
The primary role
4%
1%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


g. Setting grading and student assessment practices
No role at all
0%
13%
Small role
7%
26%
Moderate role
20%
27%
Large role
38%
24%
The primary role
34%
10%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


h. Devising teaching techniques
No role at all
0%
6%
Small role
2%
15%
Moderate role
10%
25%
Large role
33%
34%
The primary role
54%
21%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


i. Selecting instructional materials and resources
No role at all
0%
8%
Small role
4%
20%
Moderate role
14%
29%
Large role
37%
29%
The primary role
45%
14%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Leadership
Q5.1 Which position best describes the person who most often provides instructional leadership at your school? (Select one.)
a. Principal or school head
3%
31%
b. Assistant or vice principal
3%
5%
c. Department chair, grade level chair or team leader
59%
18%
d. School-based instructional specialist
0%
9%
e. Director of curriculum and instruction or other central office based personnel
2%
11%
f. Other teachers
30%
19%
g. None of the above
2%
7%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q5.2 Please rate how strongly you agree or disagree with statements about leadership in your school.
a. School leadership shields teachers from disruptions, allowing teachers to focus on educating students.
Strongly disagree
1%
12%
Somewhat disagree
5%
21%
Neither disagree nor agree
13%
17%
Somewhat agree
50%
34%
Strongly agree
32%
16%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


b. Teachers feel comfortable raising issues and concerns that are important to them.
Strongly disagree
7%
13%
Somewhat disagree
12%
19%
Neither disagree nor agree
7%
10%
Somewhat agree
39%
37%
Strongly agree
34%
22%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


c. The school leadership consistently enforces rules for student conduct.
Strongly disagree
1%
15%
Somewhat disagree
14%
22%
Neither disagree nor agree
10%
13%
Somewhat agree
49%
31%
Strongly agree
27%
19%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


d. Teacher performance evaluations are handled in an appropriate manner.
Strongly disagree
3%
7%
Somewhat disagree
7%
10%
Neither disagree nor agree
7%
16%
Somewhat agree
40%
34%
Strongly agree
43%
33%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


e. Teachers receive feedback that can help them improve teaching.
Strongly disagree
0%
7%
Somewhat disagree
8%
13%
Neither disagree nor agree
11%
17%
Somewhat agree
49%
36%
Strongly agree
33%
27%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q5.3 The school leadership makes a sustained effort to address teacher concerns about:
a. Teaching and learning issues
Strongly disagree
2%
7%
Somewhat disagree
9%
15%
Neither disagree nor agree
14%
16%
Somewhat agree
43%
42%
Strongly agree
31%
20%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


b. Leadership issues
Strongly disagree
5%
12%
Somewhat disagree
11%
18%
Neither disagree nor agree
20%
25%
Somewhat agree
42%
32%
Strongly agree
22%
14%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


c. Facilities and resources
Strongly disagree
1%
9%
Somewhat disagree
7%
17%
Neither disagree nor agree
16%
20%
Somewhat agree
52%
38%
Strongly agree
25%
16%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


d. The use of time in my school
Strongly disagree
2%
11%
Somewhat disagree
9%
20%
Neither disagree nor agree
21%
22%
Somewhat agree
51%
34%
Strongly agree
16%
14%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


e. Professional development
Strongly disagree
2%
10%
Somewhat disagree
15%
18%
Neither disagree nor agree
17%
19%
Somewhat agree
46%
38%
Strongly agree
20%
16%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


f. Empowering teachers
Strongly disagree
3%
14%
Somewhat disagree
11%
19%
Neither disagree nor agree
20%
21%
Somewhat agree
41%
31%
Strongly agree
24%
15%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


g. New teacher support
Strongly disagree
1%
9%
Somewhat disagree
5%
14%
Neither disagree nor agree
8%
21%
Somewhat agree
38%
37%
Strongly agree
48%
19%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Professional Development
Q6.1 Sufficient resources are available to allow teachers to take advantage of professional development activities.
Strongly disagree
14%
17%
Somewhat disagree
19%
24%
Neither disagree nor agree
9%
12%
Somewhat agree
36%
33%
Strongly agree
23%
14%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q6.2 Professional development provides teachers with the knowledge and skills most needed to teach effectively.
Strongly disagree
11%
15%
Somewhat disagree
16%
24%
Neither disagree nor agree
14%
14%
Somewhat agree
48%
34%
Strongly agree
11%
14%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q6.3 In the past two years, have YOU participated in any of the following professional development activities? (Check all that apply.)
a.Graduate courses
50%
62%
b. Workshops, institutes, and/or academies
85%
85%
c. Job-embedded professional development activities
59%
61%
d. Participation in a coaching or mentoring program
49%
37%
e. Attendance at conference or professional meetings
57%
57%
f. National Board Certification
3%
2%
g. State sponsored in-service program
5%
12%
h. School or district sponsored in-service program
80%
79%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q6.4a In which of the following areas (if any) do YOU need professional development to teach your students more effectively? (Check all that apply.)
a. Differentiated Instruction
40%
50%
b. Using assessments (benchmark or formative)
20%
35%
c. Establishing professional learning community protocols
11%
21%
d. Teaching second language learners
36%
33%
e. Mapping the curriculum
13%
27%
f. Managing student behavior
26%
35%
g. Using reading/writing strategies
27%
34%
h. Inducting/mentoring new teachers
20%
15%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q6.4b In the past 2 years have YOU had 10 clock hours or more of professional development in any of the following areas? (Check all that apply.)
a. Differentiated Instruction
32%
49%
b. Using assessments (benchmark or formative)
37%
47%
c. Establishing professional learning community protocols
8%
15%
d. Teaching second language learners
12%
28%
e. Mapping the curriculum
37%
34%
f. Managing student behavior
12%
19%
g. Using reading/writing strategies
42%
53%
h. Inducting/mentoring new teachers
42%
19%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q6.6a Professional development has provided YOU with strategies that you have incorporated into your instructional delivery methods.
Strongly disagree
6%
10%
Somewhat disagree
22%
15%
Neither disagree nor agree
12%
13%
Somewhat agree
40%
45%
Strongly agree
21%
17%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q6.6b Professional development has proven useful to YOU in your efforts to improve student achievement.
Strongly disagree
5%
11%
Somewhat disagree
14%
16%
Neither disagree nor agree
21%
14%
Somewhat agree
44%
42%
Strongly agree
16%
17%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q6.7a I regularly receive ongoing follow up from professional development opportunities that help me improve my teaching.
Strongly disagree
23%
24%
Somewhat disagree
31%
27%
Neither disagree nor agree
24%
22%
Somewhat agree
14%
20%
Strongly agree
8%
6%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q6.8 Teachers are provided opportunities to learn from one another.
Strongly disagree
3%
13%
Somewhat disagree
20%
25%
Neither disagree nor agree
10%
12%
Somewhat agree
45%
38%
Strongly agree
23%
12%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q6.9 Adequate time is provided for professional development.
Strongly disagree
14%
16%
Somewhat disagree
31%
27%
Neither disagree nor agree
17%
17%
Somewhat agree
33%
29%
Strongly agree
5%
10%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q6.10 Do you teach students who have an Individualized Education Plan?
Yes
97%
94%
No
3%
6%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q6.11 Do you teach students who are Limited English Proficient?
Yes
65%
56%
No
35%
44%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


School Context and Readiness
Q7.1 Please rate how strongly you agree or disagree with the following statements about your school context.
a. There is an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect within the school.
Strongly disagree
3%
12%
Somewhat disagree
14%
18%
Neither disagree nor agree
3%
9%
Somewhat agree
42%
36%
Strongly agree
38%
26%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


b. Clear expectations are communicated to students and families.
Strongly disagree
1%
6%
Somewhat disagree
2%
13%
Neither disagree nor agree
4%
9%
Somewhat agree
43%
41%
Strongly agree
50%
31%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


c. The faculty are committed to helping every student learn.
Strongly disagree
0%
1%
Somewhat disagree
2%
4%
Neither disagree nor agree
4%
5%
Somewhat agree
27%
30%
Strongly agree
67%
59%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


d. Teachers are held to high professional standards for delivering instruction.
Strongly disagree
0%
2%
Somewhat disagree
1%
6%
Neither disagree nor agree
4%
7%
Somewhat agree
20%
33%
Strongly agree
75%
52%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q7.2 The following circumstances significantly affect the ability of students in this school to learn.
a. Academic preparation
Strongly disagree
15%
6%
Somewhat disagree
14%
7%
Neither disagree nor agree
9%
10%
Somewhat agree
18%
35%
Strongly agree
44%
42%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


b. Poverty
Strongly disagree
37%
14%
Somewhat disagree
32%
14%
Neither disagree nor agree
11%
14%
Somewhat agree
11%
29%
Strongly agree
9%
28%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


c. Language
Strongly disagree
14%
15%
Somewhat disagree
23%
15%
Neither disagree nor agree
15%
14%
Somewhat agree
35%
29%
Strongly agree
14%
27%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


d. Violence outside of the school
Strongly disagree
59%
22%
Somewhat disagree
22%
17%
Neither disagree nor agree
7%
19%
Somewhat agree
7%
22%
Strongly agree
5%
20%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


e. Health issues
Strongly disagree
27%
13%
Somewhat disagree
23%
16%
Neither disagree nor agree
17%
23%
Somewhat agree
23%
31%
Strongly agree
10%
17%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


f. Excessive tardiness
Strongly disagree
24%
8%
Somewhat disagree
24%
11%
Neither disagree nor agree
20%
14%
Somewhat agree
21%
34%
Strongly agree
12%
33%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


g. Excessive absences
Strongly disagree
20%
8%
Somewhat disagree
26%
10%
Neither disagree nor agree
16%
12%
Somewhat agree
22%
32%
Strongly agree
16%
38%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


h. Community support
Strongly disagree
27%
8%
Somewhat disagree
12%
10%
Neither disagree nor agree
12%
21%
Somewhat agree
19%
33%
Strongly agree
30%
28%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


i. Transience/mobility
Strongly disagree
45%
17%
Somewhat disagree
19%
13%
Neither disagree nor agree
20%
23%
Somewhat agree
11%
22%
Strongly agree
5%
25%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q7.3 Social services are available to ensure that all students are ready to learn.
Strongly disagree
9%
12%
Somewhat disagree
3%
22%
Neither disagree nor agree
23%
20%
Somewhat agree
38%
35%
Strongly agree
27%
12%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Curriculum and Instruction
Q8.1 Please rate how strongly you agree or disagree with the following statements about your school context.
a. The curriculum taught is aligned to standards.
Strongly disagree
0%
1%
Somewhat disagree
1%
3%
Neither disagree nor agree
6%
3%
Somewhat agree
21%
29%
Strongly agree
72%
64%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


b. The curriculum taught meets the needs of students.
Strongly disagree
0%
3%
Somewhat disagree
6%
15%
Neither disagree nor agree
4%
8%
Somewhat agree
39%
45%
Strongly agree
51%
29%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


c. Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) and other student data are available in time to influence teaching.
Strongly disagree
1%
8%
Somewhat disagree
9%
13%
Neither disagree nor agree
37%
21%
Somewhat agree
24%
31%
Strongly agree
29%
27%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


d. MCAS and other student data are used to improve instruction.
Strongly disagree
9%
5%
Somewhat disagree
12%
9%
Neither disagree nor agree
39%
17%
Somewhat agree
22%
36%
Strongly agree
17%
33%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


e. MCAS-administered tests assess the content delivered.
Strongly disagree
9%
8%
Somewhat disagree
13%
15%
Neither disagree nor agree
33%
23%
Somewhat agree
27%
34%
Strongly agree
18%
20%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Overall Conditions
Q9.1a Of the five overarching conditions for teaching and learning considered in this survey, which aspect of your work environment MOST affects YOUR willingness to keep teaching at your school? (Select one.)
Time during the work day
24%
19%
School facilities and resources
26%
20%
School leadership
18%
30%
Teacher empowerment
31%
26%
Professional development
1%
4%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q9.3 Which aspect of these five conditions for teaching and learning is MOST important to you in promoting student learning? (Select one.)
Time during the work day
31%
29%
School facilities and resources
14%
21%
School leadership
10%
13%
Teacher empowerment
40%
28%
Professional development
6%
9%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q9.5 Overall, my school is a good place to work and learn.
Strongly disagree
4%
6%
Somewhat disagree
4%
10%
Neither disagree nor agree
1%
7%
Somewhat agree
19%
35%
Strongly agree
73%
42%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q9.6a Which BEST DESCRIBES your future intentions for your professional career?
Continue teaching at my current school as long as I am able
81%
65%
Continue teaching at my current school until a better opportunity comes along
11%
18%
Continue teaching but leave this school as soon as I can
0%
3%
Continue teaching but leave this district as soon as I can
0%
3%
Continue in education but leave classroom teaching
7%
8%
Leave education entirely
1%
4%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q9.7 Please rate how strongly you agree or disagree that the following factors influence your decision making about your professional plans.
a. Adequate facilities and/or resources
Strongly disagree
5%
4%
Somewhat disagree
5%
6%
Neither disagree nor agree
9%
12%
Somewhat agree
35%
44%
Strongly agree
46%
34%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


b. Adequate support from school leadership
Strongly disagree
1%
2%
Somewhat disagree
2%
4%
Neither disagree nor agree
3%
6%
Somewhat agree
33%
32%
Strongly agree
61%
56%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


c. Collegial atmosphere amongst the staff
Strongly disagree
1%
2%
Somewhat disagree
1%
3%
Neither disagree nor agree
3%
7%
Somewhat agree
28%
32%
Strongly agree
67%
56%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


d. Teaching assignment (subject, students)
Strongly disagree
1%
3%
Somewhat disagree
4%
3%
Neither disagree nor agree
7%
9%
Somewhat agree
37%
35%
Strongly agree
51%
50%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


e. Time during the work day
Strongly disagree
1%
3%
Somewhat disagree
2%
6%
Neither disagree nor agree
11%
15%
Somewhat agree
49%
41%
Strongly agree
37%
35%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


f. Empowerment to make decisions that affect my school and/or classroom
Strongly disagree
1%
2%
Somewhat disagree
4%
3%
Neither disagree nor agree
7%
9%
Somewhat agree
33%
37%
Strongly agree
56%
49%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


g. Effectiveness with the students I teach
Strongly disagree
1%
2%
Somewhat disagree
0%
2%
Neither disagree nor agree
7%
6%
Somewhat agree
26%
32%
Strongly agree
66%
57%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


h. Stronger mentoring relationship
Strongly disagree
6%
7%
Somewhat disagree
13%
11%
Neither disagree nor agree
36%
44%
Somewhat agree
32%
26%
Strongly agree
13%
12%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


i. Availability of more teacher leadership and specialist roles (e.g., mentor, coach, etc.)
Strongly disagree
4%
7%
Somewhat disagree
25%
12%
Neither disagree nor agree
39%
39%
Somewhat agree
26%
27%
Strongly agree
7%
15%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


j. Salary
Strongly disagree
2%
4%
Somewhat disagree
3%
5%
Neither disagree nor agree
9%
14%
Somewhat agree
48%
37%
Strongly agree
38%
40%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


k. Student behavior
Strongly disagree
2%
3%
Somewhat disagree
6%
7%
Neither disagree nor agree
13%
17%
Somewhat agree
50%
40%
Strongly agree
30%
32%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


l. Extent of testing and accountability
Strongly disagree
4%
4%
Somewhat disagree
10%
10%
Neither disagree nor agree
35%
28%
Somewhat agree
36%
37%
Strongly agree
15%
21%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


m. The community environment where I work
Strongly disagree
1%
3%
Somewhat disagree
4%
5%
Neither disagree nor agree
2%
16%
Somewhat agree
47%
41%
Strongly agree
47%
35%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


n. The overall demands of teaching
Strongly disagree
1%
3%
Somewhat disagree
2%
5%
Neither disagree nor agree
9%
14%
Somewhat agree
37%
37%
Strongly agree
50%
41%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


o. Retirement options
Strongly disagree
6%
5%
Somewhat disagree
7%
7%
Neither disagree nor agree
21%
25%
Somewhat agree
39%
33%
Strongly agree
28%
30%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


p. Personal reasons (health, family, etc.)
Strongly disagree
2%
5%
Somewhat disagree
6%
4%
Neither disagree nor agree
28%
23%
Somewhat agree
29%
32%
Strongly agree
36%
36%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q9.8 Please rate how effective you believe the following incentives would be in deciding to teach in a "hard-to-staff" school.
a. Signing bonus
Not effective
10%
12%
7%
5%
Somewhat effective
39%
35%
18%
17%
Extremely effective
26%
30%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


b. Retention bonus (receiving a bonus after staying a certain number of years)
Not effective
6%
8%
3%
4%
Somewhat effective
34%
28%
28%
23%
Extremely effective
30%
38%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


c. Assistance with housing (low-interest loan, down payment, etc.)
Not effective
11%
13%
7%
7%
Somewhat effective
22%
27%
23%
22%
Extremely effective
37%
32%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


d. Loan forgiveness, scholarship or tuition assistance for advanced degree
Not effective
2%
7%
1%
3%
Somewhat effective
17%
17%
27%
21%
Extremely effective
53%
51%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


e. Relocation reimbursement
Not effective
5%
12%
13%
7%
Somewhat effective
30%
28%
26%
23%
Extremely effective
26%
30%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


f. State income tax credits
Not effective
3%
6%
11%
5%
Somewhat effective
30%
23%
25%
25%
Extremely effective
31%
41%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


g. Early retirement/additional years of service for each year taught
Not effective
3%
4%
7%
3%
Somewhat effective
25%
17%
29%
24%
Extremely effective
37%
52%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


h. Reduced teaching load
Not effective
2%
4%
4%
4%
Somewhat effective
13%
19%
20%
26%
Extremely effective
61%
47%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


i. At least five hours of planning time per week
Not effective
3%
4%
3%
4%
Somewhat effective
19%
18%
30%
25%
Extremely effective
45%
49%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


j. Additional support personnel (assistants, coaches, achievement specialists, etc.)
Not effective
3%
5%
4%
6%
Somewhat effective
27%
22%
39%
27%
Extremely effective
28%
40%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


k. Additional support personnel for students (counselors, social services, health, etc.)
Not effective
3%
4%
6%
5%
Somewhat effective
18%
19%
36%
27%
Extremely effective
38%
46%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


l. Additional, targeted professional development opportunities
Not effective
9%
6%
17%
9%
Somewhat effective
30%
28%
27%
28%
Extremely effective
18%
28%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


m. Recruitment with group of like-minded teachers
Not effective
4%
6%
7%
7%
Somewhat effective
26%
27%
33%
30%
Extremely effective
31%
31%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


n. Additional role in school decisions (hiring, budget, discipline, etc.)
Not effective
3%
6%
13%
8%
Somewhat effective
32%
30%
36%
30%
Extremely effective
17%
26%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


o. Additional role in classroom decisions (curriculum, instruction, etc.)
Not effective
2%
3%
7%
4%
Somewhat effective
18%
21%
36%
32%
Extremely effective
37%
39%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Mentor/Mentee
Q11.1 Have you been formally assigned a mentor in the past three years?
Yes
94%
80%
No
6%
20%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q11.2 My mentor provided effective support in the following areas.
a. Instructional strategies
Strongly disagree
6%
8%
Somewhat disagree
6%
9%
Neither disagree nor agree
0%
9%
Somewhat agree
24%
32%
Strongly agree
65%
42%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


b. Curriculum and subject content I teach
Strongly disagree
6%
12%
Somewhat disagree
12%
11%
Neither disagree nor agree
0%
12%
Somewhat agree
6%
26%
Strongly agree
76%
40%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


c. Classroom management/discipline strategies
Strongly disagree
6%
8%
Somewhat disagree
6%
9%
Neither disagree nor agree
6%
11%
Somewhat agree
29%
32%
Strongly agree
53%
39%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


d. School and/or district policies and procedures
Strongly disagree
6%
6%
Somewhat disagree
0%
7%
Neither disagree nor agree
6%
11%
Somewhat agree
24%
34%
Strongly agree
65%
42%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


e. Completing products or documentation required of new teachers
Strongly disagree
6%
9%
Somewhat disagree
12%
10%
Neither disagree nor agree
0%
16%
Somewhat agree
18%
28%
Strongly agree
65%
38%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


f. Completing other school or district paperwork
Strongly disagree
6%
9%
Somewhat disagree
12%
11%
Neither disagree nor agree
12%
18%
Somewhat agree
12%
27%
Strongly agree
59%
36%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


g. General social support and encouragement
Strongly disagree
0%
5%
Somewhat disagree
6%
5%
Neither disagree nor agree
6%
6%
Somewhat agree
12%
24%
Strongly agree
76%
60%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


h. Other
Strongly disagree
0%
6%
Somewhat disagree
8%
3%
Neither disagree nor agree
15%
30%
Somewhat agree
8%
16%
Strongly agree
69%
45%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q11.3 Please indicate whether each of the following were true for you and your mentor.
a. My mentor and I were in the same building.
Yes
100%
92%
No
0%
8%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


b. My mentor and I taught in the same content area.
Yes
100%
69%
No
0%
31%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


c. My mentor and I taught the same grade level.
Yes
94%
64%
No
6%
36%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q11.4 On average, how often did you engage in each of the following activities with your mentor?
a. Planning during the school day with my mentor
Never
12%
29%
Less than once per month
12%
16%
Once per month
0%
11%
Several times per month
41%
13%
Once per week
24%
20%
Almost daily
12%
11%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


b. Being observed teaching by my mentor
Never
29%
34%
Less than once per month
53%
37%
Once per month
6%
14%
Several times per month
6%
7%
Once per week
0%
5%
Almost daily
6%
4%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


c. Observing my mentor's teaching
Never
41%
40%
Less than once per month
35%
35%
Once per month
12%
12%
Several times per month
6%
6%
Once per week
0%
3%
Almost daily
6%
4%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


d. Planning instruction with my mentor
Never
6%
30%
Less than once per month
12%
19%
Once per month
12%
13%
Several times per month
35%
14%
Once per week
24%
16%
Almost daily
12%
8%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


e. Having discussions with my mentor about my teaching
Never
6%
4%
Less than once per month
6%
11%
Once per month
0%
12%
Several times per month
18%
19%
Once per week
29%
25%
Almost daily
41%
29%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q11.5 Overall, my mentoring experience has been important in my decision to continue teaching at this school.
Strongly disagree
12%
22%
Somewhat disagree
6%
11%
Neither disagree nor agree
18%
26%
Somewhat agree
24%
21%
Strongly agree
41%
20%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


Q11.6 Please rate how strongly you agree or disagree with the following statements about the support you have received as a new teacher.
a. My induction program improved my instructional practice.
Strongly disagree
18%
15%
Somewhat disagree
18%
16%
Neither disagree nor agree
12%
24%
Somewhat agree
29%
30%
Strongly agree
24%
15%
  Acton-Boxborough   Massachusetts


b. My induction program influenced my decision to stay in teaching.
Strongly disagree
29%
20%
Somewhat disagree
12%
17%
Neither disagree nor agree
18%
32%
Somewhat agree
12%
19%
Strongly agree
29%
1