5 Research-backed Questions to Help Students Thrive This School Year
Start the year by asking simple questions that lead to powerful action.
What if, instead of guessing, we asked students what they need to succeed this year?
These back-to-school student questions are designed to do just that.
Whether you’re a district or school leader, counselor, psychologist, or classroom teacher, here are five research-backed questions designed to uncover what students need and help you take action right away.
Why These Questions Matter
Too often, we have seen educators ask students to rank their emotional skills or reflect on abstract values before they have even built trust. That data has its place, but not at the start of the year.
Right now, students need to feel safe, connected, and supported with the tools to thrive. These questions are designed to remove barriers to learning from day one.
5 Back-to-School Student Questions You Can Ask Today
1. I have at least one friend at my school whom I can speak to if I’m having a tough time.
- Purpose: Spot early signs of social isolation.
- Action: Create small-group check-ins, assign peer buddies, or adjust class dynamics.
2. I can talk to a teacher or other adult at this school about something that’s bothering me.
- Purpose: Identify students without adult connections.
- Action: Assign trusted adult check-ins for students who answer “no.” Consider follow-up surveys or informal interviews.
3. What is one thing you will do to make this school year a success?
- Purpose: Reinforce student agency and motivation.
- Action: Document responses. Reference them in goal-setting sessions or when students need a reminder of their “why.”
4. I feel safe coming to school.
(Optional prompt: “If you answered no, please tell us more.”)
- Purpose: Understand barriers to emotional or physical safety.
- Action: Follow up individually. Look for patterns and try to resolve them quickly.
5. Is there anything your teachers, counselors, or school should know about you this year?
- Purpose: Open a channel for connection and student voice.
- Action: Share responses with relevant staff. Use as a springboard for deeper conversations and personalized support.
Bonus Question:
What is one thing you’re looking forward to this school year?
- Purpose: Build positive anticipation and connection.
- Action: Share highlights aloud, post them on a class wall, or use them to spark future student-led activities.
You got this!
These aren’t just “nice-to-know” questions. They’re powerful signals of belonging, safety, motivation, and trust. Ask them early. Act on them quickly.
Because the most effective data you’ll collect this year might come from just one honest answer.
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