Families complete a program evaluation or survey annually and results are used for program improvement.

To meet this Standard, evidence MUST include ALL of the following:

• Copies of 3 completed surveys or other evaluation tool(s) from parents/families.
AND
• Summary of survey results for the program.
AND
• Improvement/action plan based on results from completed surveys or evaluations; required, no exceptions.

Attention:

• Uploaded evidence MUST be dated within the 15 months prior to Standards Inventory submission (MUST include full date: month, day, year).
• Redact/remove identifying information (names, addresses, etc.).

Programs are looking to improve based on what their clients feel are their strengths and weaknesses. This information is analyzed and used to improve the program.

Why is it important to involve parents/families in program evaluation and program decision making?

Including parents/families in meaningful opportunities to inform program decisions and using formalized methods for collecting parent/family input through evaluations and surveys can help staff to maintain positive attitudes, approaches, and policies toward working with families. Actively gathering input from parents/families can also help programs to better meet the needs of families and reveal ways that families and providers can partner to support children's learning and development. 

What are some ways to involve parents/families in program evaluation and program decision-making?

There are many ways that parents and other family members can be involved in program planning and decision making. If the program has a policy council or other governing board, they can invite parents/families to become members of that group. Other options might include working with parents/families to develop a satisfaction survey or including parents/families in program level decisions. Programs could also consider inviting parents and family members to join the program's self-assessment team.