Results Details

 

Significant Factors

The following results summary provides a quick snapshot for data review and inquiry. Questions included are derived from statistical analyses of the responses designed to present the most salient themes across the survey. These themes can help quickly identify broad areas of strengths and directions for improvement before individual questions are explored. All averages are on a 1 to 5 scale with 1 being the lowest.

Factor Average**  
Leadership

This is the average of the 7 questions from the leadership and empowerment sections of the survey that were most important in explaining the presence of leadership conditions that contribute to trusting, supportive environments, problem solving and decision making (Q4.1c, Q4.1d, Q4.1e, Q5.2b, Q5.3a, Q5.3b, Q5.3f).
 
3.06
3.31
Readiness

This is the average of the 7 questions from the school context and readiness section of the survey that were most important in explaining the effect of external influences on students ability to learn (Q7.2b, Q7.2c, Q7.2d, Q7.2e, Q7.2f, Q7.2g,Q7.2i) [note: a higher score indicates educators believe external factors play a stronger role on student learning].
 
2.91
3.41
Support for Professional Practice

This is the average of the 7 questions from the facilities and resources and professional development sections of the survey that were most important in explaining the quality of resources and support for professional learning and practice (Q3.1a, Q3.1b,Q3.1c, Q3.1d, Q3.1e, Q6.1,Q6.9).
 
3.05
3.16
Workload

This is the average of the 7 questions from the time section of the survey that were most important in explaining increases in workload for educators (Q2.9b, Q2.9c, Q2.9d, Q2.9e, Q2.9g, Q2.9i, Q2.9j).
 
4.04
4.10
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Detailed Report

Time
Q2.1 Please rate how strongly you agree or disagree with the following statements about the use of time in your school.
a. Teachers have reasonable class sizes.
Strongly disagree
13%
15%
Somewhat disagree
28%
26%
Neither disagree nor agree
5%
5%
Somewhat agree
42%
37%
Strongly agree
13%
18%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


b. Teachers have time available to collaborate with their colleagues.
Strongly disagree
25%
26%
Somewhat disagree
33%
29%
Neither disagree nor agree
4%
5%
Somewhat agree
32%
28%
Strongly agree
5%
11%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


c. The non-instructional time provided for teachers in my school is sufficient.
Strongly disagree
20%
23%
Somewhat disagree
36%
30%
Neither disagree nor agree
14%
11%
Somewhat agree
25%
27%
Strongly agree
5%
10%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


d. Teachers have sufficient instructional time to meet the needs of all students.
Strongly disagree
18%
17%
Somewhat disagree
44%
33%
Neither disagree nor agree
12%
10%
Somewhat agree
19%
30%
Strongly agree
7%
9%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


e. Teachers have sufficient instructional time to complete the curriculum for their subject(s) and/or grade.
Strongly disagree
22%
20%
Somewhat disagree
36%
33%
Neither disagree nor agree
11%
10%
Somewhat agree
24%
29%
Strongly agree
6%
8%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q2.3 In an average week of teaching, how much non-instructional time do YOU have available (not including time spent outside of the normal school day)?
None
0%
2%
Less than or equal to 3 hours
33%
31%
More than 3 hours but less than or equal to 5 hours
40%
38%
More than 5 hours but less than or equal to 10 hours
26%
27%
More than 10 hours
1%
3%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q2.3a Of these hours, how many are typically spent on supervisory duties?
None
46%
36%
Less than or equal to 3 hours
46%
50%
More than 3 hours but less than or equal to 5 hours
7%
11%
More than 5 hours but less than or equal to 10 hours
1%
2%
More than 10 hours
0%
0%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q2.3b Of these hours, how many are typically spent on routine paperwork?
None
5%
4%
Less than or equal to 3 hours
61%
59%
More than 3 hours but less than or equal to 5 hours
24%
27%
More than 5 hours but less than or equal to 10 hours
8%
8%
More than 10 hours
2%
2%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q2.5 In an average week of teaching, how many hours do YOU spend on school-related activities outside the regular school work day (before or after school, and/or on the weekend)?
None
2%
2%
Less than or equal to 3 hours
7%
12%
More than 3 hours but less than or equal to 5 hours
19%
18%
More than 5 hours but less than or equal to 10 hours
31%
30%
More than 10 hours
41%
39%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q2.5a Of these hours, how many are typically spent on voluntary activities (i.e., coaching, club sponsorship, etc.)?
None
54%
46%
Less than or equal to 3 hours
33%
37%
More than 3 hours but less than or equal to 5 hours
8%
9%
More than 5 hours but less than or equal to 10 hours
4%
5%
More than 10 hours
2%
4%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q2.9 Please rate how strongly you agree or disagree that the following factors significantly contribute to your overall workload.
a. Data management (attendance, report cards, etc.)
Strongly disagree
1%
2%
Somewhat disagree
5%
6%
Neither disagree nor agree
14%
15%
Somewhat agree
42%
44%
Strongly agree
38%
33%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


b. Student assessment requirements
Strongly disagree
1%
1%
Somewhat disagree
3%
3%
Neither disagree nor agree
5%
9%
Somewhat agree
28%
38%
Strongly agree
63%
49%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


c. Curriculum aligned with the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS)
Strongly disagree
7%
3%
Somewhat disagree
4%
4%
Neither disagree nor agree
21%
18%
Somewhat agree
40%
36%
Strongly agree
28%
39%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


d. Diverse student learning needs in the classroom
Strongly disagree
1%
1%
Somewhat disagree
2%
3%
Neither disagree nor agree
7%
9%
Somewhat agree
28%
35%
Strongly agree
61%
52%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


e. Student behavior
Strongly disagree
4%
3%
Somewhat disagree
9%
8%
Neither disagree nor agree
20%
13%
Somewhat agree
41%
35%
Strongly agree
27%
41%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


f. Class size increases
Strongly disagree
5%
6%
Somewhat disagree
8%
10%
Neither disagree nor agree
30%
26%
Somewhat agree
28%
31%
Strongly agree
29%
28%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


g. Required professional development
Strongly disagree
6%
3%
Somewhat disagree
11%
10%
Neither disagree nor agree
29%
25%
Somewhat agree
34%
40%
Strongly agree
21%
21%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


h. Required committee work
Strongly disagree
14%
9%
Somewhat disagree
16%
14%
Neither disagree nor agree
36%
39%
Somewhat agree
20%
28%
Strongly agree
14%
10%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


i. Compliance with No Child Left Behind
Strongly disagree
4%
3%
Somewhat disagree
4%
6%
Neither disagree nor agree
28%
26%
Somewhat agree
39%
35%
Strongly agree
25%
30%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


j. Getting students to expected levels of performance
Strongly disagree
1%
1%
Somewhat disagree
1%
1%
Neither disagree nor agree
6%
6%
Somewhat agree
30%
31%
Strongly agree
61%
61%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Facilities and Resources
Q3.1 Please rate how strongly you agree or disagree with the following statements about your school facilities and resources.
a. Teachers have sufficient access to appropriate instructional materials and resources.
Strongly disagree
13%
12%
Somewhat disagree
31%
23%
Neither disagree nor agree
5%
7%
Somewhat agree
45%
37%
Strongly agree
6%
21%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


b. Teachers have sufficient access to instructional technology, including computers, printers, software and internet access.
Strongly disagree
12%
16%
Somewhat disagree
26%
22%
Neither disagree nor agree
9%
6%
Somewhat agree
32%
31%
Strongly agree
22%
24%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


c. Teachers have access to reliable communication technology - including phones, faxes and email.
Strongly disagree
8%
12%
Somewhat disagree
17%
19%
Neither disagree nor agree
7%
7%
Somewhat agree
35%
33%
Strongly agree
32%
28%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


d. Teachers have sufficient training and support to fully utilize the available instructional technology.
Strongly disagree
16%
16%
Somewhat disagree
40%
28%
Neither disagree nor agree
13%
13%
Somewhat agree
24%
31%
Strongly agree
6%
12%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


e. Teachers have adequate professional space to work productively.
Strongly disagree
12%
15%
Somewhat disagree
21%
22%
Neither disagree nor agree
8%
11%
Somewhat agree
37%
32%
Strongly agree
22%
21%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


f. Teachers and staff work in a school environment that is physically safe.
Strongly disagree
3%
6%
Somewhat disagree
11%
12%
Neither disagree nor agree
9%
9%
Somewhat agree
36%
33%
Strongly agree
42%
40%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


g. Teachers and staff work in a school that is environmentally healthy.
Strongly disagree
11%
15%
Somewhat disagree
25%
24%
Neither disagree nor agree
15%
12%
Somewhat agree
28%
28%
Strongly agree
21%
20%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


h. Teachers and staff work in a school environment that is clean and well maintained.
Strongly disagree
19%
11%
Somewhat disagree
28%
20%
Neither disagree nor agree
8%
10%
Somewhat agree
24%
32%
Strongly agree
21%
28%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


i. Teachers have sufficient access to a broad range of professional support (professional) personnel.
Strongly disagree
21%
9%
Somewhat disagree
27%
19%
Neither disagree nor agree
12%
12%
Somewhat agree
28%
37%
Strongly agree
12%
23%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Empowerment
Q4.1 Please rate how strongly you agree or disagree with the following statements about empowerment in your school.
a. Teachers are meaningfully involved in decision making about educational issues.
Strongly disagree
27%
16%
Somewhat disagree
25%
26%
Neither disagree nor agree
9%
12%
Somewhat agree
31%
36%
Strongly agree
7%
10%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


b. Teachers are trusted to make sound professional decisions about instruction.
Strongly disagree
18%
10%
Somewhat disagree
23%
17%
Neither disagree nor agree
10%
9%
Somewhat agree
32%
41%
Strongly agree
17%
23%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


c. In this school we take steps to solve problems.
Strongly disagree
12%
8%
Somewhat disagree
17%
16%
Neither disagree nor agree
15%
13%
Somewhat agree
40%
41%
Strongly agree
16%
23%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


d. The faculty has an effective process for making group decisions to solve problems.
Strongly disagree
16%
14%
Somewhat disagree
24%
24%
Neither disagree nor agree
18%
18%
Somewhat agree
31%
32%
Strongly agree
10%
13%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


e. Teachers are recognized as educational experts.
Strongly disagree
21%
11%
Somewhat disagree
18%
18%
Neither disagree nor agree
14%
14%
Somewhat agree
33%
37%
Strongly agree
14%
21%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


f. Opportunities for career growth within the teaching profession (other than administration) are available to me (e.g., mentor, academic coach, etc.)
Strongly disagree
15%
9%
Somewhat disagree
28%
17%
Neither disagree nor agree
15%
21%
Somewhat agree
30%
36%
Strongly agree
12%
17%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


g. Teachers are encouraged to participate in professional leadership activities.
Strongly disagree
12%
8%
Somewhat disagree
11%
15%
Neither disagree nor agree
27%
27%
Somewhat agree
34%
32%
Strongly agree
16%
18%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


h. Teachers are supported by the community in which they teach.
Strongly disagree
7%
12%
Somewhat disagree
17%
22%
Neither disagree nor agree
19%
17%
Somewhat agree
38%
35%
Strongly agree
19%
14%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


i. Families help students achieve educational goals in this school.
Strongly disagree
3%
14%
Somewhat disagree
13%
26%
Neither disagree nor agree
21%
17%
Somewhat agree
46%
34%
Strongly agree
17%
9%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q4.2 Please indicate how large a role teachers have at your school in each of the following areas.
a. School improvement planning
No role at all
11%
8%
Small role
34%
29%
Moderate role
37%
38%
Large role
18%
23%
The primary role
1%
2%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


b. Shaping the schedule of the school day
No role at all
27%
27%
Small role
30%
33%
Moderate role
29%
25%
Large role
11%
13%
The primary role
4%
2%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


c. Deciding how the school budget will be spent
No role at all
49%
46%
Small role
40%
36%
Moderate role
9%
14%
Large role
2%
3%
The primary role
0%
0%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


d. Establishing and implementing policies related to student discipline
No role at all
19%
23%
Small role
32%
35%
Moderate role
24%
27%
Large role
20%
14%
The primary role
5%
2%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


e. Hiring of new teachers
No role at all
37%
38%
Small role
36%
33%
Moderate role
19%
20%
Large role
7%
9%
The primary role
1%
1%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


f. Determining the content of in-service professional development programs
No role at all
34%
29%
Small role
43%
37%
Moderate role
19%
23%
Large role
3%
10%
The primary role
1%
1%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


g. Setting grading and student assessment practices
No role at all
16%
13%
Small role
32%
26%
Moderate role
26%
27%
Large role
21%
24%
The primary role
5%
10%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


h. Devising teaching techniques
No role at all
4%
6%
Small role
16%
15%
Moderate role
27%
25%
Large role
35%
34%
The primary role
17%
21%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


i. Selecting instructional materials and resources
No role at all
6%
8%
Small role
24%
20%
Moderate role
34%
29%
Large role
29%
29%
The primary role
8%
14%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Leadership
Q5.1 Which position best describes the person who most often provides instructional leadership at your school? (Select one.)
a. Principal or school head
26%
31%
b. Assistant or vice principal
2%
5%
c. Department chair, grade level chair or team leader
24%
18%
d. School-based instructional specialist
5%
9%
e. Director of curriculum and instruction or other central office based personnel
11%
11%
f. Other teachers
22%
19%
g. None of the above
11%
7%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q5.2 Please rate how strongly you agree or disagree with statements about leadership in your school.
a. School leadership shields teachers from disruptions, allowing teachers to focus on educating students.
Strongly disagree
14%
12%
Somewhat disagree
24%
21%
Neither disagree nor agree
19%
17%
Somewhat agree
34%
34%
Strongly agree
10%
16%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


b. Teachers feel comfortable raising issues and concerns that are important to them.
Strongly disagree
19%
13%
Somewhat disagree
22%
19%
Neither disagree nor agree
7%
10%
Somewhat agree
32%
37%
Strongly agree
20%
22%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


c. The school leadership consistently enforces rules for student conduct.
Strongly disagree
16%
15%
Somewhat disagree
29%
22%
Neither disagree nor agree
15%
13%
Somewhat agree
28%
31%
Strongly agree
12%
19%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


d. Teacher performance evaluations are handled in an appropriate manner.
Strongly disagree
20%
7%
Somewhat disagree
15%
10%
Neither disagree nor agree
31%
16%
Somewhat agree
20%
34%
Strongly agree
14%
33%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


e. Teachers receive feedback that can help them improve teaching.
Strongly disagree
16%
7%
Somewhat disagree
22%
13%
Neither disagree nor agree
22%
17%
Somewhat agree
29%
36%
Strongly agree
10%
27%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q5.3 The school leadership makes a sustained effort to address teacher concerns about:
a. Teaching and learning issues
Strongly disagree
13%
7%
Somewhat disagree
13%
15%
Neither disagree nor agree
21%
16%
Somewhat agree
37%
42%
Strongly agree
16%
20%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


b. Leadership issues
Strongly disagree
19%
12%
Somewhat disagree
20%
18%
Neither disagree nor agree
28%
25%
Somewhat agree
23%
32%
Strongly agree
11%
14%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


c. Facilities and resources
Strongly disagree
14%
9%
Somewhat disagree
23%
17%
Neither disagree nor agree
22%
20%
Somewhat agree
24%
38%
Strongly agree
15%
16%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


d. The use of time in my school
Strongly disagree
18%
11%
Somewhat disagree
21%
20%
Neither disagree nor agree
24%
22%
Somewhat agree
26%
34%
Strongly agree
11%
14%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


e. Professional development
Strongly disagree
13%
10%
Somewhat disagree
18%
18%
Neither disagree nor agree
24%
19%
Somewhat agree
34%
38%
Strongly agree
11%
16%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


f. Empowering teachers
Strongly disagree
20%
14%
Somewhat disagree
23%
19%
Neither disagree nor agree
22%
21%
Somewhat agree
22%
31%
Strongly agree
12%
15%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


g. New teacher support
Strongly disagree
16%
9%
Somewhat disagree
23%
14%
Neither disagree nor agree
25%
21%
Somewhat agree
25%
37%
Strongly agree
12%
19%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Professional Development
Q6.1 Sufficient resources are available to allow teachers to take advantage of professional development activities.
Strongly disagree
20%
17%
Somewhat disagree
29%
24%
Neither disagree nor agree
9%
12%
Somewhat agree
32%
33%
Strongly agree
11%
14%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q6.2 Professional development provides teachers with the knowledge and skills most needed to teach effectively.
Strongly disagree
20%
15%
Somewhat disagree
27%
24%
Neither disagree nor agree
13%
14%
Somewhat agree
29%
34%
Strongly agree
11%
14%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q6.3 In the past two years, have YOU participated in any of the following professional development activities? (Check all that apply.)
a.Graduate courses
52%
62%
b. Workshops, institutes, and/or academies
88%
85%
c. Job-embedded professional development activities
67%
61%
d. Participation in a coaching or mentoring program
37%
37%
e. Attendance at conference or professional meetings
61%
57%
f. National Board Certification
2%
2%
g. State sponsored in-service program
8%
12%
h. School or district sponsored in-service program
71%
79%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q6.4a In which of the following areas (if any) do YOU need professional development to teach your students more effectively? (Check all that apply.)
a. Differentiated Instruction
54%
50%
b. Using assessments (benchmark or formative)
32%
35%
c. Establishing professional learning community protocols
27%
21%
d. Teaching second language learners
32%
33%
e. Mapping the curriculum
31%
27%
f. Managing student behavior
32%
35%
g. Using reading/writing strategies
37%
34%
h. Inducting/mentoring new teachers
26%
15%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q6.4b In the past 2 years have YOU had 10 clock hours or more of professional development in any of the following areas? (Check all that apply.)
a. Differentiated Instruction
47%
49%
b. Using assessments (benchmark or formative)
59%
47%
c. Establishing professional learning community protocols
12%
15%
d. Teaching second language learners
18%
28%
e. Mapping the curriculum
25%
34%
f. Managing student behavior
9%
19%
g. Using reading/writing strategies
53%
53%
h. Inducting/mentoring new teachers
13%
19%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q6.6a Professional development has provided YOU with strategies that you have incorporated into your instructional delivery methods.
Strongly disagree
16%
10%
Somewhat disagree
15%
15%
Neither disagree nor agree
15%
13%
Somewhat agree
43%
45%
Strongly agree
11%
17%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q6.6b Professional development has proven useful to YOU in your efforts to improve student achievement.
Strongly disagree
17%
11%
Somewhat disagree
17%
16%
Neither disagree nor agree
17%
14%
Somewhat agree
39%
42%
Strongly agree
11%
17%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q6.7a I regularly receive ongoing follow up from professional development opportunities that help me improve my teaching.
Strongly disagree
34%
24%
Somewhat disagree
34%
27%
Neither disagree nor agree
15%
22%
Somewhat agree
12%
20%
Strongly agree
4%
6%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q6.8 Teachers are provided opportunities to learn from one another.
Strongly disagree
17%
13%
Somewhat disagree
23%
25%
Neither disagree nor agree
9%
12%
Somewhat agree
41%
38%
Strongly agree
9%
12%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q6.9 Adequate time is provided for professional development.
Strongly disagree
20%
16%
Somewhat disagree
39%
27%
Neither disagree nor agree
12%
17%
Somewhat agree
24%
29%
Strongly agree
6%
10%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q6.10 Do you teach students who have an Individualized Education Plan?
Yes
99%
94%
No
1%
6%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q6.11 Do you teach students who are Limited English Proficient?
Yes
70%
56%
No
30%
44%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


School Context and Readiness
Q7.1 Please rate how strongly you agree or disagree with the following statements about your school context.
a. There is an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect within the school.
Strongly disagree
22%
12%
Somewhat disagree
18%
18%
Neither disagree nor agree
7%
9%
Somewhat agree
32%
36%
Strongly agree
20%
26%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


b. Clear expectations are communicated to students and families.
Strongly disagree
9%
6%
Somewhat disagree
17%
13%
Neither disagree nor agree
11%
9%
Somewhat agree
39%
41%
Strongly agree
24%
31%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


c. The faculty are committed to helping every student learn.
Strongly disagree
1%
1%
Somewhat disagree
2%
4%
Neither disagree nor agree
2%
5%
Somewhat agree
29%
30%
Strongly agree
67%
59%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


d. Teachers are held to high professional standards for delivering instruction.
Strongly disagree
5%
2%
Somewhat disagree
5%
6%
Neither disagree nor agree
12%
7%
Somewhat agree
33%
33%
Strongly agree
46%
52%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q7.2 The following circumstances significantly affect the ability of students in this school to learn.
a. Academic preparation
Strongly disagree
11%
6%
Somewhat disagree
11%
7%
Neither disagree nor agree
10%
10%
Somewhat agree
33%
35%
Strongly agree
35%
42%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


b. Poverty
Strongly disagree
22%
14%
Somewhat disagree
22%
14%
Neither disagree nor agree
24%
14%
Somewhat agree
20%
29%
Strongly agree
12%
28%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


c. Language
Strongly disagree
15%
15%
Somewhat disagree
19%
15%
Neither disagree nor agree
22%
14%
Somewhat agree
29%
29%
Strongly agree
15%
27%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


d. Violence outside of the school
Strongly disagree
39%
22%
Somewhat disagree
27%
17%
Neither disagree nor agree
16%
19%
Somewhat agree
14%
22%
Strongly agree
5%
20%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


e. Health issues
Strongly disagree
22%
13%
Somewhat disagree
24%
16%
Neither disagree nor agree
21%
23%
Somewhat agree
25%
31%
Strongly agree
9%
17%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


f. Excessive tardiness
Strongly disagree
9%
8%
Somewhat disagree
17%
11%
Neither disagree nor agree
19%
14%
Somewhat agree
38%
34%
Strongly agree
18%
33%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


g. Excessive absences
Strongly disagree
12%
8%
Somewhat disagree
14%
10%
Neither disagree nor agree
17%
12%
Somewhat agree
34%
32%
Strongly agree
23%
38%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


h. Community support
Strongly disagree
13%
8%
Somewhat disagree
12%
10%
Neither disagree nor agree
27%
21%
Somewhat agree
30%
33%
Strongly agree
18%
28%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


i. Transience/mobility
Strongly disagree
21%
17%
Somewhat disagree
19%
13%
Neither disagree nor agree
34%
23%
Somewhat agree
18%
22%
Strongly agree
9%
25%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q7.3 Social services are available to ensure that all students are ready to learn.
Strongly disagree
10%
12%
Somewhat disagree
26%
22%
Neither disagree nor agree
22%
20%
Somewhat agree
34%
35%
Strongly agree
8%
12%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Curriculum and Instruction
Q8.1 Please rate how strongly you agree or disagree with the following statements about your school context.
a. The curriculum taught is aligned to standards.
Strongly disagree
0%
1%
Somewhat disagree
2%
3%
Neither disagree nor agree
5%
3%
Somewhat agree
30%
29%
Strongly agree
63%
64%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


b. The curriculum taught meets the needs of students.
Strongly disagree
1%
3%
Somewhat disagree
19%
15%
Neither disagree nor agree
9%
8%
Somewhat agree
48%
45%
Strongly agree
23%
29%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


c. Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) and other student data are available in time to influence teaching.
Strongly disagree
6%
8%
Somewhat disagree
14%
13%
Neither disagree nor agree
28%
21%
Somewhat agree
29%
31%
Strongly agree
22%
27%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


d. MCAS and other student data are used to improve instruction.
Strongly disagree
7%
5%
Somewhat disagree
18%
9%
Neither disagree nor agree
20%
17%
Somewhat agree
30%
36%
Strongly agree
26%
33%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


e. MCAS-administered tests assess the content delivered.
Strongly disagree
7%
8%
Somewhat disagree
19%
15%
Neither disagree nor agree
25%
23%
Somewhat agree
35%
34%
Strongly agree
14%
20%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Overall Conditions
Q9.1a Of the five overarching conditions for teaching and learning considered in this survey, which aspect of your work environment MOST affects YOUR willingness to keep teaching at your school? (Select one.)
Time during the work day
20%
19%
School facilities and resources
19%
20%
School leadership
37%
30%
Teacher empowerment
22%
26%
Professional development
2%
4%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q9.3 Which aspect of these five conditions for teaching and learning is MOST important to you in promoting student learning? (Select one.)
Time during the work day
29%
29%
School facilities and resources
15%
21%
School leadership
16%
13%
Teacher empowerment
27%
28%
Professional development
13%
9%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q9.5 Overall, my school is a good place to work and learn.
Strongly disagree
10%
6%
Somewhat disagree
15%
10%
Neither disagree nor agree
10%
7%
Somewhat agree
34%
35%
Strongly agree
31%
42%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q9.6a Which BEST DESCRIBES your future intentions for your professional career?
Continue teaching at my current school as long as I am able
47%
65%
Continue teaching at my current school until a better opportunity comes along
26%
18%
Continue teaching but leave this school as soon as I can
2%
3%
Continue teaching but leave this district as soon as I can
14%
3%
Continue in education but leave classroom teaching
9%
8%
Leave education entirely
2%
4%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q9.7 Please rate how strongly you agree or disagree that the following factors influence your decision making about your professional plans.
a. Adequate facilities and/or resources
Strongly disagree
3%
4%
Somewhat disagree
9%
6%
Neither disagree nor agree
13%
12%
Somewhat agree
48%
44%
Strongly agree
27%
34%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


b. Adequate support from school leadership
Strongly disagree
2%
2%
Somewhat disagree
3%
4%
Neither disagree nor agree
4%
6%
Somewhat agree
26%
32%
Strongly agree
65%
56%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


c. Collegial atmosphere amongst the staff
Strongly disagree
2%
2%
Somewhat disagree
2%
3%
Neither disagree nor agree
5%
7%
Somewhat agree
26%
32%
Strongly agree
65%
56%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


d. Teaching assignment (subject, students)
Strongly disagree
2%
3%
Somewhat disagree
2%
3%
Neither disagree nor agree
11%
9%
Somewhat agree
35%
35%
Strongly agree
49%
50%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


e. Time during the work day
Strongly disagree
3%
3%
Somewhat disagree
4%
6%
Neither disagree nor agree
14%
15%
Somewhat agree
41%
41%
Strongly agree
38%
35%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


f. Empowerment to make decisions that affect my school and/or classroom
Strongly disagree
1%
2%
Somewhat disagree
2%
3%
Neither disagree nor agree
6%
9%
Somewhat agree
32%
37%
Strongly agree
58%
49%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


g. Effectiveness with the students I teach
Strongly disagree
4%
2%
Somewhat disagree
2%
2%
Neither disagree nor agree
7%
6%
Somewhat agree
27%
32%
Strongly agree
60%
57%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


h. Stronger mentoring relationship
Strongly disagree
10%
7%
Somewhat disagree
11%
11%
Neither disagree nor agree
37%
44%
Somewhat agree
30%
26%
Strongly agree
11%
12%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


i. Availability of more teacher leadership and specialist roles (e.g., mentor, coach, etc.)
Strongly disagree
10%
7%
Somewhat disagree
10%
12%
Neither disagree nor agree
36%
39%
Somewhat agree
28%
27%
Strongly agree
16%
15%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


j. Salary
Strongly disagree
5%
4%
Somewhat disagree
5%
5%
Neither disagree nor agree
10%
14%
Somewhat agree
35%
37%
Strongly agree
45%
40%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


k. Student behavior
Strongly disagree
3%
3%
Somewhat disagree
7%
7%
Neither disagree nor agree
24%
17%
Somewhat agree
45%
40%
Strongly agree
21%
32%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


l. Extent of testing and accountability
Strongly disagree
3%
4%
Somewhat disagree
11%
10%
Neither disagree nor agree
28%
28%
Somewhat agree
38%
37%
Strongly agree
20%
21%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


m. The community environment where I work
Strongly disagree
2%
3%
Somewhat disagree
3%
5%
Neither disagree nor agree
8%
16%
Somewhat agree
44%
41%
Strongly agree
43%
35%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


n. The overall demands of teaching
Strongly disagree
4%
3%
Somewhat disagree
7%
5%
Neither disagree nor agree
16%
14%
Somewhat agree
36%
37%
Strongly agree
37%
41%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


o. Retirement options
Strongly disagree
3%
5%
Somewhat disagree
11%
7%
Neither disagree nor agree
26%
25%
Somewhat agree
35%
33%
Strongly agree
25%
30%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


p. Personal reasons (health, family, etc.)
Strongly disagree
3%
5%
Somewhat disagree
4%
4%
Neither disagree nor agree
25%
23%
Somewhat agree
36%
32%
Strongly agree
32%
36%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q9.8 Please rate how effective you believe the following incentives would be in deciding to teach in a "hard-to-staff" school.
a. Signing bonus
Not effective
7%
12%
7%
5%
Somewhat effective
37%
35%
20%
17%
Extremely effective
29%
30%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


b. Retention bonus (receiving a bonus after staying a certain number of years)
Not effective
4%
8%
5%
4%
Somewhat effective
30%
28%
27%
23%
Extremely effective
35%
38%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


c. Assistance with housing (low-interest loan, down payment, etc.)
Not effective
10%
13%
5%
7%
Somewhat effective
20%
27%
27%
22%
Extremely effective
38%
32%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


d. Loan forgiveness, scholarship or tuition assistance for advanced degree
Not effective
7%
7%
2%
3%
Somewhat effective
18%
17%
23%
21%
Extremely effective
50%
51%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


e. Relocation reimbursement
Not effective
11%
12%
7%
7%
Somewhat effective
28%
28%
24%
23%
Extremely effective
30%
30%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


f. State income tax credits
Not effective
7%
6%
4%
5%
Somewhat effective
24%
23%
25%
25%
Extremely effective
40%
41%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


g. Early retirement/additional years of service for each year taught
Not effective
4%
4%
3%
3%
Somewhat effective
19%
17%
21%
24%
Extremely effective
53%
52%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


h. Reduced teaching load
Not effective
2%
4%
5%
4%
Somewhat effective
19%
19%
27%
26%
Extremely effective
47%
47%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


i. At least five hours of planning time per week
Not effective
4%
4%
2%
4%
Somewhat effective
14%
18%
27%
25%
Extremely effective
54%
49%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


j. Additional support personnel (assistants, coaches, achievement specialists, etc.)
Not effective
2%
5%
4%
6%
Somewhat effective
19%
22%
28%
27%
Extremely effective
46%
40%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


k. Additional support personnel for students (counselors, social services, health, etc.)
Not effective
2%
4%
2%
5%
Somewhat effective
17%
19%
25%
27%
Extremely effective
53%
46%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


l. Additional, targeted professional development opportunities
Not effective
5%
6%
11%
9%
Somewhat effective
27%
28%
31%
28%
Extremely effective
27%
28%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


m. Recruitment with group of like-minded teachers
Not effective
5%
6%
6%
7%
Somewhat effective
21%
27%
34%
30%
Extremely effective
33%
31%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


n. Additional role in school decisions (hiring, budget, discipline, etc.)
Not effective
6%
6%
8%
8%
Somewhat effective
26%
30%
33%
30%
Extremely effective
27%
26%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


o. Additional role in classroom decisions (curriculum, instruction, etc.)
Not effective
4%
3%
5%
4%
Somewhat effective
12%
21%
39%
32%
Extremely effective
40%
39%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Mentor/Mentee
Q11.1 Have you been formally assigned a mentor in the past three years?
Yes
50%
80%
No
50%
20%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q11.2 My mentor provided effective support in the following areas.
a. Instructional strategies
Strongly disagree
20%
8%
Somewhat disagree
0%
9%
Neither disagree nor agree
20%
9%
Somewhat agree
30%
32%
Strongly agree
30%
42%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


b. Curriculum and subject content I teach
Strongly disagree
20%
12%
Somewhat disagree
0%
11%
Neither disagree nor agree
10%
12%
Somewhat agree
40%
26%
Strongly agree
30%
40%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


c. Classroom management/discipline strategies
Strongly disagree
20%
8%
Somewhat disagree
20%
9%
Neither disagree nor agree
10%
11%
Somewhat agree
20%
32%
Strongly agree
30%
39%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


d. School and/or district policies and procedures
Strongly disagree
20%
6%
Somewhat disagree
20%
7%
Neither disagree nor agree
0%
11%
Somewhat agree
30%
34%
Strongly agree
30%
42%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


e. Completing products or documentation required of new teachers
Strongly disagree
30%
9%
Somewhat disagree
10%
10%
Neither disagree nor agree
20%
16%
Somewhat agree
20%
28%
Strongly agree
20%
38%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


f. Completing other school or district paperwork
Strongly disagree
20%
9%
Somewhat disagree
20%
11%
Neither disagree nor agree
20%
18%
Somewhat agree
20%
27%
Strongly agree
20%
36%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


g. General social support and encouragement
Strongly disagree
20%
5%
Somewhat disagree
0%
5%
Neither disagree nor agree
10%
6%
Somewhat agree
30%
24%
Strongly agree
40%
60%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


h. Other
Strongly disagree
25%
6%
Somewhat disagree
0%
3%
Neither disagree nor agree
25%
30%
Somewhat agree
25%
16%
Strongly agree
25%
45%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q11.3 Please indicate whether each of the following were true for you and your mentor.
a. My mentor and I were in the same building.
Yes
80%
92%
No
20%
8%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


b. My mentor and I taught in the same content area.
Yes
100%
69%
No
0%
31%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


c. My mentor and I taught the same grade level.
Yes
90%
64%
No
10%
36%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q11.4 On average, how often did you engage in each of the following activities with your mentor?
a. Planning during the school day with my mentor
Never
40%
29%
Less than once per month
20%
16%
Once per month
0%
11%
Several times per month
10%
13%
Once per week
20%
20%
Almost daily
10%
11%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


b. Being observed teaching by my mentor
Never
90%
34%
Less than once per month
0%
37%
Once per month
10%
14%
Several times per month
0%
7%
Once per week
0%
5%
Almost daily
0%
4%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


c. Observing my mentor's teaching
Never
30%
40%
Less than once per month
30%
35%
Once per month
40%
12%
Several times per month
0%
6%
Once per week
0%
3%
Almost daily
0%
4%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


d. Planning instruction with my mentor
Never
40%
30%
Less than once per month
10%
19%
Once per month
10%
13%
Several times per month
10%
14%
Once per week
10%
16%
Almost daily
20%
8%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


e. Having discussions with my mentor about my teaching
Never
20%
4%
Less than once per month
20%
11%
Once per month
20%
12%
Several times per month
0%
19%
Once per week
10%
25%
Almost daily
30%
29%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q11.5 Overall, my mentoring experience has been important in my decision to continue teaching at this school.
Strongly disagree
40%
22%
Somewhat disagree
10%
11%
Neither disagree nor agree
30%
26%
Somewhat agree
10%
21%
Strongly agree
10%
20%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


Q11.6 Please rate how strongly you agree or disagree with the following statements about the support you have received as a new teacher.
a. My induction program improved my instructional practice.
Strongly disagree
10%
15%
Somewhat disagree
30%
16%
Neither disagree nor agree
20%
24%
Somewhat agree
30%
30%
Strongly agree
10%
15%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


b. My induction program influenced my decision to stay in teaching.
Strongly disagree
20%
20%
Somewhat disagree
10%
17%
Neither disagree nor agree
40%
32%
Somewhat agree
20%
19%
Strongly agree
10%
12%
  Arlington   Massachusetts


c. My mentor improved my instructional practice.