Survey Says…

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Surveys can tell you a lot about a large group of students in a short amount of time.

They can help you measure satisfaction at pivotal points of the year, gauge interest in new menu items, compare experiences across the district, and even help shape how students view the meal program and what priorities you set for the year.

Instructions

Time Considerations: 30-60 minutes to create the survey; aim for surveys that will take under 5 minutes to complete

Materials Needed: Print survey and pens or Google form access through email or QR code

Participants: You and your team, all students who pass through the cafeteria or a subset

Step One

Determine what type of feedback you are seeking through a digital or print survey. For instance, are you interested in comparing two meal options or do you have broader questions about the scope of the meal program?

Step Two

Once you’ve settled on a type of feedback, figure out how to structure it. Would a quick poll using light touch prompts serve your purpose (e.g., voting like/don’t like on a food item) or would a longer survey be better? Use the Question Library included here to compile a list of questions most relevant to your design needs.

Step Three

Think creatively about different approaches for administering your survey. Try using a QR code and posting it around the line or on lunch tables so students can scan and contribute from their phones in the moment. Many districts use social media to communicate with parents and students as well, while others find that it is not a great way to gather constructive feedback. Whichever option you choose, determine when the survey begins and end and if you can provide an incentive to complete it (e.g., a special pen or notebook, something popular on the menu, etc.). Translate the survey before sharing with key populations that you would like to serve better.

Step Four

Assess feedback and think about how you will implement feasible suggestions and communicate results back to students. For example, show a poster of all of the results or highlight something in the lunch line that was introduced because of the feedback you received in the survey.