Inform the Future of Learning: Annual FSD Assurance Survey

Your Voice Matters

The Foothills School Division Assurance Survey is issued to every parent and guardian with a child in an FSD school. Your participation lets the Division and your child’s school know about your experience with the engagement, support, and success of your child.

Informed decision making using quality data is important. That’s why we ask all FSD families the same questions in the provincial assurance survey (see AECA Survey). To inform our strategic planning, this year’s survey will also ask all families to consider school and Division communications, the assessment, evaluation, and reporting of student learning, and a framework to support ethical and responsible use of emerging technology. Your child’s school may have additional questions for school-based planning.

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How to Participate

1. One survey per parent and guardian is issued for each school your children attend.
2. Invitation and access code will be sent by email from assurance@fsd38.ab.ca
3. Open April 15 to April 30, 2026
4. Your responses are anonymous and will contribute to the aggregate results of the school and of the Division.  Results are compiled and reported in the Annual Education Results Report (AERR).

Emerging Technology

How does a framework to guide the ethical and responsible use of technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), enhance student learning?

• Clear guidance on the use of technology supports your child’s learning and development of skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, and self‑management.

Communications

How effectively does the school and Division share information about student engagement, support, and success?

• You feel informed about learning and engagement opportunities shared by your child’s school and the Division and are aware of the value, impact, and successes of learning through timely communications.

System of Reporting

Is the assessment, evaluation, and reporting of student learning give you the information you need, when you need it, to understand and support your child?

• Clear and consistent communications and reporting tools help you understand your child’s progress, including academic learning, skill development, strengths, areas for growth, and next steps.
• You can access learning information when you need it, using Edsembli to stay informed throughout the year—not just at learner profile (report card) time.

Wellness, Well-Being & Supports

Do the positive professional relationships at your child’s school promote wellness and well-being for all students?

• You are aware of the school’s strategies to support student  wellness and well-being.

Learning for Transfer

Is your child’s learning engaging and preparing them to  effectively apply their learning to other aspects of life?

• Your child’s learning is engaging and meaningful, connecting to personal interests, strengths, future possibilities, and real‑world situations across subject areas.
• Your child builds strong foundations and ownership of learning, including literacy and numeracy skills, setting goals, reflecting on learning, and making connections beyond the classroom.
• Your child develops strong thinking and problem‑solving skills, including applying learning, innovating, reasoning, and working with complex problems over time.

Education Quality

Do you feel your child is learning important skills and understanding their schoolwork?

• Your child can explain what they are learning in class. “We’re learning about fractions today”
• Teachers share learning outcomes through regular communications (gradebook check ins, classroom updates)
• Your child brings home assignments that build on previous learning
• Learning is building critical thinking, literacy, numeracy, and technical skills for the world of work,
• If your child struggles, the teacher provides guidance, tools, or extra practice.

Parental Involvement

Do you feel included, informed, and offered opportunities to participate?

• You receive emails or newsletters about learning, events, or decisions.
• Teachers, principals, or other school contacts respond when you reach out.
• You’re invited to School Council, complete surveys, learner conferences, school performances, classroom events, or information nights.
• You have the opportunity to check your child’s gradebook and learner profile on Edsembli
• You feel that the school listens to your concerns or suggestions

Safe, Caring & Welcoming Schools

Does the school create an environment where your child feels safe, respected, and treated fairly?

• Your child feels comfortable going to school each day.
• School staff greet students and use supportive and positive language.
• Your child has a positive peer group in class and/or through clubs and teams.
• Conflicts are handled respectfully and fairly.
• Your child has trusted adults at school they can talk to.

Student Learning Engagement

Is your child curious, motivated, and invested in what they’re learning?

• Your child talks about their learning at home   “Guess what we did in science!”
• They show persistence when work is challenging.
• They enjoy hands‑on projects, group work, or creative problem‑solving.
• They are excited about classroom topics or activities.

Program of Studies

Is your child getting access to a variety of subjects beyond the basics?

• Your child takes part in arts, music/band, makerspace, CTF, CTS, drama, and/or another language in school (French Immersion, French as Second Language, Spanish).
• They explore different topics and interests throughout the year.
• They talk about real‑world connections in their learning.

Life Long Learning

Does your child learn how to learn — not just what to learn?

• Your child has set personal learning goals or reflects on their progress.
• They develop confidence in trying new things.
• They learn to ask questions, research, and think critically.
• Your child is learning transferrable skills.

School Improvement

Based on your experience, is the school making positive changes?

• You notice new programs, activities, stronger communication.
• You feel your child is more supported or more engaged this year.
• You’ve seen the school’s plans to improve in the Education Plan and Annual Education Results Report.

Access to Supports and Services

When your child needs help, support is available.

• School teams help your child with friendship challenges or worries.
• You’re aware of the formal supports available in the school or division including: 
  • Family School Liaison Counsellors
  • Youth Development Coach
  • Minds Matter
  • Academic and Career Advisors
  • Learning Coach
• Your child has access to books, learning tools, or additional resources in the classroom or learning commons.
• Your child’s learning needs are met with relevant materials and resources.

Work Preparation

Is the school helping your child develop habits and skills they’ll use beyond school?

• Your child is practicing responsibility (meeting deadlines, organizing their work).
• They use collaboration, communication, and problem‑solving in class.
• Your child is learning to be independent, respectful, and resilient.
• (Grade 7 & 10) students explore careers, pathways, or leadership roles.

Citizenship

Is your child learning to be kind, respectful, cooperative, and globally aware?

• Students help each other in class and within the school setting.
• Your child learns about empathy, fairness, and making responsible choices.
• They participate in acts of service, leadership, or community‑building activities, such as Students’ Matters or other groups in school.
• They show respect for others’ cultures and perspectives.