News Release February 12, 2026

Emporia Public Schools Shares Climate Survey Results with Board of Education

Emporia, KS — The Emporia Public Schools Board of Education reviewed the results of the district’s Climate Survey during a recent meeting. The information was presented by Dr. Britton Hart, Assistant Executive Director of Leadership Services with the Kansas Association of School Boards (KASB). The survey compares feedback from 2023 and 2025 and helps the district better understand how students, staff, families, and community members feel about Emporia Public Schools.

The survey invited parents and caregivers, staff, students, and community members to share their thoughts about teaching and learning, school safety, communication, and leadership. While slightly fewer people completed the survey in 2025, participation was more balanced across all groups. There were more student voices included and separate feedback gathered from community members, providing a clearer overall picture of the district.

The results show positive growth in classrooms across the district. More participants shared confidence in what students are learning, how lessons connect from one grade to the next, and how schools monitor student progress. Support for students who need extra help also improved compared to 2023.

School climate results also improved. More participants said schools feel safe and respectful, and that students and staff work well together. Recognition of students and staff also increased. Although feedback on student behavior and discipline improved, the district will continue to focus on this area based on survey results and written comments.

Communication showed some of the strongest gains. More parents and community members shared that they feel welcomed, informed, and comfortable contacting schools with questions or concerns. Many people who took the survey said communication efforts are better than in the past.

Feedback about leadership also improved. Building principals and directors were viewed more positively, with many participants describing them as accessible, supportive, and effective.

Overall, parents and guardians continue to report high satisfaction with Emporia Public Schools, especially regarding school facilities, cleanliness, and friendly front-office staff. A small decrease in feedback about instructional quality may reflect higher expectations as the district continues to grow and improve.

Dr. Hart shared that the survey results will help guide future planning, goal-setting, and resource use. The district will use this input to identify priorities, strengthen communication and engagement, and continue improving schools for students, staff, and families.

Emporia Public Schools remains committed to listening to its community and using feedback to create safe, welcoming, and high-quality learning environments for all.