­State Legal Requirements for Parental Consent for School-Based Surveys­

Overview

School-based student health surveys have proven to be an important tool for identifying emerging problems in youth physical, behavioral, and mental health and wellbeing; tracking trends; and developing policy and programmatic interventions. Despite their importance in improving youth health, these surveys have come under scrutiny in recent years. A cultural narrative emerged that parents were losing control of their children’s educational curriculum, materials, and activities (like the school-based health surveys). Some states now require active consent for all surveys administered to students. This resource examines state laws regarding parental consent and student surveys.