Why Do Schools Participate in Speak Up?
Over 30,000 schools have leveraged their Speak Up data to plan current and future programs, understand stakeholder needs, and inform policy discussions at the local, state, and national levels.
School districts are using Speak Up data to expand digital equity, revise professional development for teachers, meet state reporting requirements, and enhance advocacy efforts. A few of our participants have shared their WHY . . .
“It is very important to get parent and student feedback and buy-in when developing plans to improve the use of technology in our schools,” said Patrick D. Gann, Technology Leader at Walker County Schools. “The Speak Up research has been pivotal in how we approach implementation and adaptation of technologies in both our classroom curriculums and district policies.”
Patrick D. Gann
Technology Director
Walker County Schools, AL
“The Speak Up data highlighted for us the need and accelerated the process to make significant changes in the way we provide teachers with the additional support needed to use technology more effectively.”
Stephanie Casperson
Executive Director of Technology
San Marcos Unified School District, CA
“Speak Up has its finger on the pulse of students and helps us to make the right decisions in advancing our vision and creating pathways for students to embrace the opportunities of tomorrow.“
“The district takes very seriously questions of adequate access and ensuring that all students have this access and can do assignments at home. Without this access, students are at a distinct disadvantage in completing homework and researching projects. We can help identify grants to remove barriers for students who do not have a reliable Internet source at home.”
Donna Smith
Director of Library and Media Technology
Arrowhead Union High School District, WI
“I love what Speak Up is doing and urge more districts to become involved and administer the survey in their district. Speak Up is providing all schools and districts the chance to be heard and make meaningful changes based on the voice of their stakeholders. As a free tool, Speak Up promotes equity and ensures all schools and districts have this opportunity, not only those that have the budget to purchase expensive solutions. It was particularly thrilling for Ferris ISD to have one of its students participate in the 2022 Congressional briefing. Imagine a student from our small district in Texas sharing his views with national policymakers. That was an empowering moment – and one that I will always remember.”
Lydia Croupe
Instructional Technology Coordinator
Formerly with Ferris Independent School District, TX
Learn more by reading case studies from districts that have used Speak Up data to drive meaningful change and explore advice from Speak Up Heroes.
If you would like to discuss your school or district’s participation in Speak Up, you can email speakup@tomorrow.org.