January 21, 2011

TO THE ADMINISTRATOR ADDRESSED:

Subject: 2010-2011 School Health Survey

The purpose of this letter is to notify school districts of the requirement to respond to the 2010-2011 School Health Survey per the Texas Education Code §38.0141. This requirement gives the Texas Education Agency the authority to collect statistics and data related to student physical activity and health. The survey will gather information on the implementation of school health-related policies and programs. The information will be used to develop reports, respond to legislative inquiries, and create relevant trainings and technical assistance systems to support districts in implementing school health programs.

This information is to be submitted only ONCE per school district (not per campus) using the online Survey Monkey website. Please identify one most appropriate person in the district to enter survey responses. This individual will want to work with other district employees to ensure that accurate responses are provided. These responses will be reflective of district-level policies and practices, as well as campus averages. Please note that Survey Monkey will not allow you to fill out part of the report online and then come back later to complete it. Therefore, it is recommended that you use the attached copy of the survey to compile your answers first, and then log onto Survey Monkey to enter and submit the information electronically. Again, please remember that the survey must be submitted online via Survey Monkey. After you complete the survey online, and click DONE you will receive a message thanking you for completing, but will not be able to access it again. Therefore, we recommend that you keep a copy of the survey for your own records and supply another to the Superintendent.

Please submit data for your district by March 4th, 2011.

To enter the survey, go to: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/5RYJ3CT

Your input will help ensure a high-quality evaluation that the Texas Legislature can use in their efforts to enhance the success of Texas students. In addition, the survey will assist TEA in understanding how your district is implementing the school health mandates and other health-related programs and policies. Please keep a copy of the survey for your own records and supply another to the Superintendent.

If you have questions, please contact the School Health and Safety Division, at (512) 463-3070 or at Tammy.Wooten@tea.state.tx.us. The TEA thanks you for your time and appreciates your cooperation in support of this important project.

Sincerely,

Ginny Barr
Manager of School Health Programs

Marissa L. Rathbone
Director of School Health

Attachment: School Health Survey