The online community survey and conversation was available to all district families, staff and taxpayers from May 1, 2024 through May 26, 2024 via an online, multilingual platform called ThoughtExchange. Responses in the platform were anonymous and ThoughtExchange offered two-way engagement and transparency where participants could view and rank the thoughts of others during the survey period.

Why Host a Community Conversation?

• Keep a continuous dialogue and feedback loop with the community.
• Define areas of growth and improvement that can be implemented alongside district vision, mission and overall priorities.
• Continue to build trust and an environment with open lines of communication.
• Continue to collect longitudinal data and review against a national poll of local public school ratings.

The open-ended feedback opportunity generated a mix of insightful community perspectives. A large majority of respondents appreciate the district's sense of community, diversity and education along with a desire for consistent teacher quality across the district. The dedication of teachers and the abundance of extracurricular activities are also valued. Technology and critical support are consistent themes as there's a shared commitment to technology integration and student safety. 

This year, there was a slight increase in participation among families with children in K-5th Grade, while participation from those without children in the district dipped slightly compared to previous years. While awareness and engagement of the Exchange remained above average, overall participation showed little change compared to previous years, thus yielding healthy overall figures. 

Feedback gained from the survey was presented to the Shakopee School Board on June 24, 2024. 

In addition to last year's (2023) Thought Exchange, Shakopee Public Schools had previously conducted phone surveys administered by Baker Tilly in 2019 and 2021. To review 2021 survey data, click here; 2019 survey results can be found here. 

To stay up to date on the latest district finance updates, click here or join the School Board at an upcoming school board meeting. 

Questions or additional information about the 2024 survey and community conversation can be directed to communications@shakopee.k12.mn.us or by calling 952.496.5991.