As part of an ongoing community-engagement and strategic planning initiative that began during the 2025–2026 school year, Marion County Schools will begin conducting a districtwide survey of community members next week. The survey, planned in partnership with an independent research firm beginning in May 2026, is designed to provide the district with meaningful feedback about its strengths, challenges, priorities, and opportunities for continued growth. “This survey gives us an important opportunity to hear directly from a broad cross-section of the people we serve,” said Dr. Donna Heston, Superintendent of Marion County Schools. “We want to understand what our stakeholders believe we are doing well, where they see opportunities for improvement, and what they believe should be priorities for Marion County Schools moving forward.” The survey was designed by ExcellenceK12, a Kansas City-based market research firm experienced in working with public school districts. Telephone interviews will be conducted by Market Research Associates using professional researchers. Participants will be selected at random from throughout Marion County, allowing the district to hear from residents representing different communities, age groups, backgrounds, and lengths of residency. Individual responses will remain confidential. Calls will be placed between 7 and 9 p.m. on weekdays and noon to 6 p.m. on Saturdays. Caller ID may display “Market Research Associates” or an 816 or 913 area code because the company utilizes calling facilities in both Missouri and Kansas. The survey process is expected to take approximately two weeks. “Meaningful planning begins with listening. We encourage anyone who receives a call to participate and provide candid feedback. That input will help us continue building on our successes, addressing areas where we can improve, and making thoughtful decisions about the future of Marion County Schools.”
Continuing the Work We Started: Marion County Schools to Conduct Community Survey
August 19, 2026