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Updated: July 8, 2012 8:13AM
On homework, 39 percent of Lyons Township High School students responding to a survey said they spend more than four hours a week on homework, with 13 percent spending three to four hours and 17 percent spending two to three hours. Students were divided on the amount of homework given with 52 percent reporting it was just right and 47 percent saying it was too much.
Teachers also were somewhat divided on homework with 68 percent reporting the amount was just right, 27 percent saying it was too much and 5 percent considering it too little.
Although 92 percent of students said they felt safe on school grounds, and 84 percent said they use principals of good behavior, 42 percent said bullying is a problem and 66 percent said they’ve satisfied with bullying prevention efforts.
For teachers, 54 percent said they were satisfied with how bullying is handled at school, and 71 percent agreed bullying prevention efforts were satisfactory.
Senior Erik Wennerstrum of Western Springs agreed bullying prevention has been a major focus in his four years at LT since the death of classmate Iain Steele at the close of their freshman year in 2009. Steele, who had been the target of bullies, also struggled with depression and took his life.
“Ever since Iain died, the whole perspective has really changed dramatically,” Wennerstrum said. “There’s definitely a more friendly feel at LT. It’s a safe school.”
The survey also pointed out differences in perceptions on some school practices. For example, 95 percent of teachers reported using technology effectively in the classroom, compared to 66 percent of students who said teachers used technology well.
Although 81 percent of staff members felt treated with respect, only 26 percent said there is sufficient opportunity for collaboration between administrators and teachers; 54 percent disagreed there is a chance for collaboration, and 19 percent said the question doesn’t apply.
Staff members also were divided on whether school rules are consistently enforced with 35 percent in agreement and 59 percent disagreeing. Forty nine percent said they were satisfied the how discipline is enforced, compared to 43 percent of staff who weren’t satisfied.
