September 17, 2026, by Andrew Scrivo, Program Coordinator- Sources of Strength, Seward Middle/High, Seward Prevention Coalition for the Seward Folly

Parents and guardians of Seward students in grades 8–10 are being asked to sign and return permission slips for the Planet Youth Survey, which will be administered on September 22. 

The survey will help schools, Youth360, and community partners better understand the experiences and mental health needs of Seward’s young people. So far, 47 students have returned signed permission slips, but broad participation is needed to create an accurate picture of how local teens are doing.

Unlike national or statewide studies, the Planet Youth Survey provides information about students in Seward. It examines their experiences at home, at school, with friends, in activities, and across the community. It also identifies the relationships and conditions that protect young people, as well as the factors that may put their health and well-being at risk.

The Planet Youth Survey is confidential and anonymous. Individual students will not be identified, and every completed survey will strengthen the community’s understanding of what Seward teens are experiencing right now.

That local information matters. Without it, schools and community organizations may be forced to make decisions based on assumptions or data from places that do not reflect life in Seward. Strong participation will give local leaders a clearer understanding of where young people need support and where limited time, funding, and other resources can have the greatest impact.

The Planet Youth approach is based on the idea that healthy outcomes for young people are not solely the responsibility of young people themselves. Teens should not be expected to overcome difficult circumstances or make healthy choices without support. Families, schools, businesses, churches, the City, local organizations, and other community partners all share responsibility for creating conditions in which young people can thrive.

Survey results can help these groups work toward common goals. They can also support accountability by showing where resources are most likely to improve the attitudes, experiences, and behaviors associated with mental health, risk, and protection.

The survey will take place on September 22 for students in grades 8–10. Parent or guardian permission is required. A PDF copy of the permission slip and link is available below. Please complete and return it as soon as possible.

Andrew Scrivo

Program Director- Youth360

Program Coordinator- Sources of Strength, Seward Middle/High

Seward Prevention Coalition

andrew@spcalaska.org

Planet Youth Survey Permission Slip