The Examiner U-46 News FeedU-46 state student survey contains ‘sensitive’ topics By Seth Hancock
Students across the state have been asked to participate in an admittedly intrusive questionnaire called the Illinois Youth Survey.
The survey, which states its “completely voluntary,” and that it is given every two years to middle and high school students. The survey, when asking the participants age and grade level, give options as young as 9 years old while giving only sixth, seventh and eighth grade as options.
“The questions ask you about a number of different things, including health and social indicators such as substance use and perceptions, bullying, violence, and other information about your school and your family,” the survey states.
Although students do not give their names, it asks for personal information asking children to describe their sexuality while it gives the options of male, female, transgender or other for gender identification.
The survey asks a myriad of questions related to thoughts on and use of e-cigarettes, cigarettes, alcohol, marijuana, prescription drugs and a whole host of other drugs.
Children are asked about their feelings towards their parents and family rules, where they live, where they sleep and do they think of harming themselves.
The survey introduces children to things like alcopops, glue sniffing, marijuana vaping, huffing aerosol cans, getting high with cough syrup and anti-anxiety drugs and many drugs like MDMA, LSD, cocaine, meth and heroin.
School District U-46 has been administering the survey. Bartlett’s Eastview Middle School sent a message to parents stating it was given during gym class on May 19.
The Eastview message stated the survey covers “potentially sensitive topics” and “some questions ask about personal behaviors that might make some students feel uncomfortable.”
The Examiner inquired with the district about the grade levels taking the survey, the process of informing parents and their right to opt-out, if the district is required by the state to administer it, if the survey is online or paper and what protections are in place to safeguard students’ privacy.
After following up with the district, a spokesperson said they would “look into these and get back.” However, The Examiner has yet to receive a response.
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