Duxbury Schools Survey Reveals Areas for Improvement, Full-Day Kindergarten Announced

Survey highlights need for improved student behavior management and staff input in decision-making; district plans to incorporate findings into school improvement plans

DUXBURY, MA - June 5 - Duxbury Public Schools has identified several areas for improvement, including student behavior management, staff input in decision-making, and timely feedback on student work, according to a recent district-wide culture and climate survey.

The survey, which garnered responses from 1,859 participants, will inform future school improvement plans, according to Superintendent Dr. Danielle Klingaman.

One of the most significant findings was that 34% of campus-based staff disagreed that school administrators consistently enforce rules for student conduct. This highlights a need for improved communication and consistency in disciplinary procedures.

Parents and guardians also expressed concerns about the timeliness and usefulness of feedback from teachers. Thirty-five percent disagreed that teachers provide useful information about how to help their child, while 31% disagreed that teachers give timely and appropriate feedback about student work.

Klingaman emphasized the importance of addressing these issues. "We want to make sure that families and staff are feeling that things are being handled in the right way and they can trust that," she stated.

The survey results will be incorporated into school improvement plans, with discussions planned at faculty meetings and school councils. The district aims to use this data to enhance communication strategies and improve overall educational experiences.

In a separate announcement, Duxbury Public Schools revealed plans to implement free full-day kindergarten for the 2024-2025 school year. This significant change will require careful budgeting and communication with the community.

"It's going to be incumbent on all of us to work really hard to communicate with the community the need to have that as part of our operating budget," Klingaman explained. The district is already planning for the financial implications, including pre-planning for the FY26 budget.

The meeting also included updates on the district's strategic plan progress. Notable achievements include the completion of ELA and math curriculum reviews, equity audit work, and the development of career pathways for students.

Klingaman highlighted the district's partnerships with community organizations, stating, "There's not one organization in this town that doesn't want to help or partner with us, and it's incredible."