A survey of public attitudes toward education in the Terra Nova Integrated School District

Abstract

The purpose of this project was to determine the attitudes of a sample of parents concerning various aspects of the educational program in the Terra Nova Integrated School District. -- The data was collected by means of a questionnaire consisting of 55 items. A sample of parents recorded their attitudes toward school anonymously on a Likert-type scale. Data obtained from the questionnaire were analysed by frequency and percentage of response. -- The project gave rise to the following recommendations. First, the School Board should be sure that they are aware of all the variables that could influence parental response. Second, there should be more communications from administrators to parents. Third, the School Board should hold some of their meetings in communities other than Gander. Fourth, the School Board should take steps to insure that parents are provided with an accurate account of the monies being spent on education in the district. Fifth, the School Board should provide leadership and support for the introduction of programs dealing with sex education, drug information, and venereal disease prevention in the schools. Sixth, the School Board should provide more information on the newer concepts and aspects of education to parents, such as open education, special education, and guidance and counseling.