Abbotsford Students Demand School Improvements Through Survey

Students from the Abbotsford School District have voiced their desire for enhanced study environments and improved washroom facilities through a comprehensive survey conducted by the Youth Health Accountability Network (YHAN). Over 1,200 students in Grades 9 to 12 participated in this initiative, providing anonymous feedback regarding their school experiences, well-being, and support systems. The survey was conducted during the fall of 2023 and is expected to influence future policy decisions within the district.

Key Findings from the Student Survey

Among the findings, a significant number of students expressed a need for more quiet study spaces within schools. Ayra Dhillon, a Grade 10 student at Abbotsford Senior Secondary School and one of the leaders behind the survey, highlighted that many respondents requested designated areas for studying and downtime. She noted that 43 percent of students indicated they do not get enough breaks during the school day, which contributes to stress and challenges in managing their workload.

The survey also revealed concerns regarding the condition of school washrooms. Approximately 33 percent of respondents identified washroom improvements as their top priority. Common issues included malfunctioning hand dryers, lack of paper towels, and overall cleanliness. Dhillon emphasized the importance of these findings, stating, “The hardest part about being a student is that sometimes you don’t get the space to breathe throughout the day.”

Student Engagement and Future Recommendations

In collaboration with Assistant Superintendent Bruce Cunnings, Dhillon worked on the survey design for about three months. The purpose was to provide students with a platform to express their concerns and recommendations regarding school policies. “We realized that when the school district or school board makes new policies, not a lot of it includes the concerns, suggestions, or recommendations that students have,” Dhillon explained.

The survey’s results will be presented to district leaders, and Dhillon intends to propose three key policy recommendations at an upcoming meeting: reinstating late starts on Fridays, establishing quiet study-only spaces, and incorporating structured study blocks into the school day. These recommendations reflect the survey’s findings, which indicate a strong desire among students for changes that would enhance their educational experience.

As a testament to the survey’s success, Dhillon mentioned that similar initiatives may be launched in other districts, including Chilliwack and Surrey, as students seek to bring their voices to the forefront of educational discussions. The feedback collected not only highlights the needs of current students but also serves as a valuable resource for shaping future educational policies.

In addition to the multiple-choice questions, the survey included open-ended queries that allowed students to express their thoughts on various topics. Responses revealed a desire for more flexible schedules, mental health resources, and safe spaces within schools. For instance, many students advocated for the return of “SLO days,” which previously allowed for later starts on Fridays.

Overall, the survey has illuminated key areas of concern for students in the Abbotsford School District, demonstrating their eagerness to engage with school administrators and contribute to meaningful changes in their educational environment. The results underscore the importance of student feedback in shaping policies that directly impact their daily lives.