Salem School District

As part of its strategic planning efforts, a district-based team is developing a new initiative focused on understanding how students discover and pursue their passions in school.

The Salem School District is taking a closer look at what inspires students—and where that inspiration might get lost. As part of its strategic planning efforts, a district-based team is developing a new initiative focused on understanding how students discover and pursue their passions in school.

“We’re looking closely at where student passion is being supported, and where it might be unintentionally stifled,” said Eric Bird, a Technology Integrator with the district and spokesperson for the team. “This is about listening to students and using that feedback to improve what we offer them.”

The team’s first step is designing a series of surveys that will be given to students in kindergarten through 12th grade. These surveys aim to find out what makes students excited to learn, which school experiences help them grow their interests, and where they might feel limited or disconnected.

Recognizing that students at different ages experience school in different ways, the team has grouped them into four grade clusters: K–2, 3–5, 6–8, and 9–12. Each cluster will receive its own version of the survey, with carefully tailored questions and formats.

“We’re being very intentional about how we ask these questions,” Bird explained. “For our youngest students, for example, we’re exploring how to gather feedback without using computers—possibly through hands-on classroom activities or guided conversations.”

For students in grades 6–12, the team is looking at using advisory periods to administer surveys in a setting that feels safe and familiar. “Advisory gives students a chance to share in a room with a trusted adult,” Bird said, noting the importance of comfort and trust in collecting honest feedback.

The group is also reviewing existing surveys and data tools already used in the district, including the high school’s “Student Culture & Climate Questionnaire,” the “New Hampshire Youth Risk Behavior Survey,” and the middle school’s “Wellness Wednesday” survey. By building on what’s already working, the team hopes to create something meaningful and engaging—offering new insights while respecting students’ time and voices.