Panels to understand policy-related perspectives
The second panel (pictured above) discussed policy-related issues and how state agencies and school boards have responded to policy changes. Panel members are:
- Kent Reed, M.D., School Environment and Health Program Manager, Kansas Department of Education
- Andy Brown, MSW, Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services Deputy Director of Programs
- Melanie Jacques, Bar Doctor, Assistant Attorney General of the State of Kansas
- Angie Stollbaumer, J.D., Kansas Board of Education Vice President and General Counsel
Panel members discussed important considerations for schools and school boards, highlighting the complexities and unintended consequences of recent legislative changes regarding data collection, privacy, and health equity. Panel members discussed the impact of data gaps on understanding community needs and allocating resources. Melanie Jacques of the Kansas Attorney General’s Office outlined the process for handling student privacy complaints, noting that the number of complaints received is small. A student data privacy complaint form is available on the Kansas Attorney General’s website.
Symposium
Discussions continued through both virtual and in-person roundtables facilitated by KHI staff. Participants self-selected their groups, reflected on the day’s discussions, and identified strategies that could address the issues raised, such as increasing participation or other strategies to collect meaningful data. Roundtable discussions covered a wide range of topics, including data collection and management, policy and regulation, and program development and innovation. Despite the diversity of topics, conversations in all three areas focused on similar concerns and suggested next steps. Therefore, insights and recommendations are presented together, reflecting the interrelated nature of these themes.
Overall, participants in the roundtable discussion expressed concerns about addressing the complexities of implementing student data privacy laws in schools, especially when it intersects with mental health professionals assessing student risk. Specific issues were raised, including trust and understanding between stakeholders, awareness and relevance of youth data collection, and data collection processes. Securing parental consent within 4 months and the need to opt-in were considered major barriers to data collection.
Important points
Collaboration with stakeholders
Build trust through education and engagement. Participants emphasized the importance of fostering understanding among parents and students about how data is being used, recognizing this as a fundamental element to building trust. Community members, including students, teachers, and parents, will be more engaged when they have a clear understanding of how data is being used to improve the well-being of students and the community as a whole. To increase this understanding, it is important to conduct multifaceted educational activities and partner with community-based organizations that use data to drive research.
Share research insights with students and parents. Another suggested strategy was to compile and share survey results with students and parents as data became available. After reviewing the data, schools can consider engaging parents and students in conversations to develop solutions to identified problems.
Data-driven decision making
Foster a culture of data-driven decision-making. Participants emphasized the importance of leveraging positive research trends in messaging, as well as trends of concern. A greater understanding of the importance of developing and establishing baseline data and systematically monitoring trends was identified as an essential element in building a culture of data-driven decision-making.
Addressing concerns
Address parent and student concerns. Participants acknowledged that parents and students have concerns about privacy, accuracy, and relevance. Parents have a strong desire to be informed and involved in what their children are exposed to at school. Parents emphasized the importance of being the main source of information and guidance for their children. Providing information about research that addresses specific concerns as part of the consent process may increase participation.
Communicate with teachers and administrators regarding concerns. Participants also acknowledged that teachers and administrators had the same concerns as parents regarding accuracy and relevance, as well as additional time constraints during class time. Communicating with teachers and administrators about important aspects of survey administration, the value of their information, and the importance of their role in the process may further increase participation.
communication
Strengthen student leadership. Participants viewed students as potential advocates for peer education and participation in research. Working with student organizations such as Resist Chapters and HOSA to provide peer-led health messages may be another opportunity to address student concerns.
Convey the value of student data to legislators. Include student voices in your messages. Participants recognized the value of letting legislators know how local schools and programs are using data within their districts. Student voice was considered essential to finding out what students needed, both through survey instruments and discussions with policy makers.
Involved in public service announcements. Participants will educate students, parents, teachers, and community members about the importance of youth data through public service announcements at sporting events and other widely attended activities, and promotional items that display positive messages. I’ve seen some opportunities.
Process improvement
Make your data collection process more streamlined. Participants discussed options to make the process more effective and reduce administrative burden, such as moving to telephone-based de-identified survey links. Participants expressed concerns about the length of the survey, its repetition, and the importance of the questions.
Find out what’s working. Participants wanted more information from other states and other Kansas communities about effective communication and other strategies for successful data collection.
