The Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) is committed to ensuring our schools are safe, caring and inclusive spaces for everyone. To make sure we are achieving this goal, we will be asking all students in Grades 4 to 12 to complete our Safe, Caring and Inclusive School Survey (SCIS) from November 14 to 25, 2022.

What is the survey about?

The WRDSB wants to better understand the areas of child development that contribute to students’ well-being, health and school success. The SCIS asks students about their thoughts, feelings and experiences in school and in the community.

Middle Years Development Instrument

We will be using the Middle Years Development Instrument (MDI) as our SCIS survey. The MDI asks students about their:

  1. Social and emotional development, such as self-esteem, optimism, happiness and empathy;
  2. Feelings of connectedness to school, family, friends, and communities;
  3. School experiences;
  4. Physical health and well-being; and,
  5. Time use after school hours, as well as students’ wishes for after-school time.

How will the survey happen?

On November 14, students in Grades 4 to 12 will receive the link to the survey via email. Teachers will provide time during class to complete the survey from November 14 to 25.

The survey should take approximately 40-90 minutes to complete. Staff will provide assistance to any students who require accommodation in order to complete the survey.

The SCIS is voluntary. Please read our family information letter that includes instructions on how to opt out your child(ren) from the survey.

How will the survey results be used?

Students’ responses to the questions will be kept confidential and will be presented anonymously. The results of the survey will be used to inform activities to enhance school engagement, positive learning experiences and academic success.

We appreciate your support in this important research initiative. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your school principal.