In the past, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) has encouraged private schools to participate in the Private School Survey (PSS) to collect data for national reporting. Participation among private schools nationwide has historically been low, though Catholic schools have consistently participated. The data provides an important snapshot of the contributions private schools make to K–12 education in the United States.
Recently, NCES has increased its outreach efforts. Some schools have received letters indicating that representatives may visit campuses. These communications may give the impression that participation is required; however, participation in the survey is voluntary. At the same time, PSS data plays an important role in representing private schools nationally. Participation also helps ensure that each school’s NCES ID remains active and that the school appears in the NCES school search tool, which many parents use to find local private schools that meet their needs.
Schools may have received email invitations earlier this year from pss@census.gov to complete the survey. The survey takes approximately 20 minutes and can be completed online. Census staff may follow up by phone or visit schools that have not yet responded. For assistance, schools may contact pss@census.gov or call 1-888-329-5890.
Please let us know if you receive one—we would like to better understand how widespread these outreach efforts are across Washington.
