Survey Outlines Strong School Climate in AHPS   Low Moor, VA (Oct. 27, 2026) - Strong teacher satisfaction, positive school leadership and a sense of safety are among the encouraging findings in the 2026 Virginia School Survey of Climate and Working Conditions for Alleghany Highlands Public Schools.  The results also highlight opportunities to strengthen mental health support and ensure students know where to turn when they need help. “The survey gives us an opportunity to hear directly from our students and teachers about what is working well and where we can improve,” said Superintendent Kim Halterman. “We are encouraged by the positive feedback about our teachers, school leadership and learning environments, while recognizing the importance of addressing students’ needs and ensuring they feel supported.” The survey, administered by the Virginia Department of Education and the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services Center for School and Campus Safety, gathered responses from 616 students in grades nine through 12 and 47 classroom instructors at Alleghany High School and Jackson River Technical Center.  The survey is part of requirements for Virginia schools. Several findings from teachers reflect satisfaction above state averages. “These findings reflect the dedication of our teachers and staff to creating safe, welcoming environments where students can learn and thrive,” Halterman said. “Supporting our educators, recognizing their contributions and fostering strong school communities remain essential to student success.” Students also reported strong support for the services of School Resource Officers (SROs). SROs are provided in all schools through agreements with the Covington Division of Police and the Alleghany County Sheriff’s Office.  The findings offer encouraging feedback about school climate and the experiences of students and educators across the division. Alongside these positive findings, the survey identified an important opportunity to strengthen student mental health support and connections with trusted adults.  The survey helps identify if students know a trusted adult in the school, like a teacher or school counselor, who can assist them if they feel sad or hopeless. The results underscore the importance of building relationships that help students feel connected, recognize when support may be needed and understand how to access available resources.  AHPS employs school counselors as well as a specialized mental health counselor.   “Every student deserves to feel that they belong, that someone cares about them and that help is available when they need it,” Halterman said. “These findings remind us how important it is to build trusting relationships, listen to students and ensure they know where to turn for support. Student well-being and academic success go hand-in-hand.” Alleghany Highlands Public Schools plans to use the survey findings to help guide work on character development and social-emotional learning, mental health resources and discipline practices. The results will help division leaders identify priorities, build on existing strengths and consider opportunities to better support students and staff. Halterman stressed that creating a positive school environment takes teamwork among educators, families and community partners. Alleghany Highlands Public Schools was established in July 2022 through the consolidation of Alleghany County Public Schools, Covington City Public Schools and Jackson River Technical Center. AHPS has been recognized at a statewide conference for using survey results to make improvements. This data has been especially helpful as the division continues to navigate the consolidation process. “We are encouraged by the areas where students and teachers report positive experiences, and we also recognize that creating safe, supportive schools always requires continued effort,” Halterman said. “By listening to our students, supporting our educators and working alongside families and community partners, we can build on our strengths and continue addressing the needs of our school community.”

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