Texas School Survey

How can we find out about alcohol and drug trends in our schools?

The Texas School Survey of Drug and Alcohol Use (TSS) has been conducted in Texas schools since 1988. The survey covers the prevalence of substance use, factors affecting youth substance use, and students’ attitudes toward substance use. The Texas School Survey includes grades 7-12. Campus-specific results are available, as well as district-wide, regional, and statewide reports.  The survey is implemented by the Public Policy Research Institute at Texas A&M University (PPRI).

When is the next Texas School Survey?
  • The  survey is happening this school year in Spring 2018.
  • It is FREE to schools selected to participate. Non-selected schools can opt-in for a fee.
  • Statewide surveys are conducted every other year. Local school district surveys are available every year.
What do you get when you use the Texas School Survey?
  • Flexibility — You choose the survey date any time between December – June. You choose the format, either paper or online. You choose the time, either one class period or subject area. You may also choose to add up to 30 questions to survey about other school needs.
  • Data about your school — The TSS is now offering free campus reports with unique data for your school. Campus reports are sent to your designated contact person only and are not shared with anyone else. The reports can help you develop or improve campus policies, support grant applications, and school board presentations. You may also receive a district-wide report, regional, or statewide report.
  • Convenience — The survey takes about 40 minutes. Materials are packaged in classroom envelopes for easy delivery. Final reports are provided electronically.
  • Support — PPRI provides support to you throughout the entire survey process.
How is the data used?
  • Campus reports are not shared with anyone except your school’s contact person.
  • Region-wide and state-wide reports are provided to the Prevention Resource Center and the Department of State Health Services to help assess where and what kind of youth services are needed in Texas.
  • The survey produces factual data to replace speculative and sensational information.
  • Regional data helps community and prevention organizations effectively identify community needs and unite to meet them.
  • The Texas School Survey provides state and local agencies with data to quantify local drug and alcohol use, as well as provide guidance on the best means to address the problem.
  • The survey is an effective tool to evaluate the impact of special substance abuse prevention and education programs.
  • The Texas School Survey is designed to be responsive to the questions of Texas educators, policymakers, parents, and community groups.
  • The TSS greatly assists the Prevention Resource Center’s research.
What kinds of questions does the Texas School Survey answer?
  1. What types of drugs and alcohol are students using?
  2. How much do they typically consume, and how often?
  3. How often do students drive after using drugs or alcohol?
  4. How often are drugs and alcohol used at parties?
  5. Where do the students get most of their information about drugs and alcohol?
  6. Who would students turn to if they needed help?
  7. Do students feel safe in school?

An additional 30 questions can be added to the TSS from the school or school district, subject to review for methodology by PPRI.

How much does it cost? 
  • The survey is FREE if your school is selected by random sampling. You will receive $500 to participate.
  • A fee would be charged if you want to opt-in when not selected by random sampling. The fee covers the cost of data analysis and your  Campus Report.

Individual schools are randomly selected for sampling. Each sampled school will be contacted by Texas A&M. This year, the Texas Department of State Health Services is offering a $500 incentive for sampled schools to take the survey. This means they receive all survey materials for free and an additional $500.

We strongly encourage sampled schools to participate. Help Texas students by identifying what and where services are needed.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the TSS, please don’t hesitate to call Texas A&M’s research advocate at 979.845.1922 or the PRC Regional Community Liaison at 281-200-9210.

How to Enroll in the TSS

Complete the online basic participation form at: http://texasschoolsurvey.org/register/

Find more information and TSS contact info at:
http://texasschoolsurvey.org

Read the TSS Frequently Asked Questions here: TSS FAQ