Using Saved Responses to Reply to Parent Comments (Plus Examples!)
Collecting feedback from parents through surveys is a valuable way to understand concerns, celebrate successes, and improve experiences. However, replying to comments can be time-consuming (even though it’s a best practice!)—especially when many responses require similar acknowledgments.
With the Messaging feature, your school can create saved responses to quickly and consistently address common types of survey feedback. This helps parents feel heard while streamlining your communication process. Here’s a quick refresher on how to create saved responses:
In this guide, we’ll provide some examples of saved responses your school can use for different types of survey feedback. Feel free to customize - it’s important your responses sound and feel authentic!
1. Thank You Responses
These responses show appreciation for parents taking the time to fill out a survey and provide feedback.
General Thank You:
“Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us! We value your input and appreciate your time. Your feedback helps us improve our school community and culture. You are a valued member of [school name]!”
Thank You for Positive Feedback:
“We’re so glad to hear that you’ve had a positive experience! Thank you for your support and for being an integral part of our community.”
2. Addressing Concerns or Complaints
These responses help acknowledge concerns and show a willingness to resolve issues.
Acknowledging the Concern:
“We appreciate your honesty and understand your concerns. Your feedback helps us work toward solutions, and we take your feedback seriously. We will be sure to address this as we continue to grow and improve.”
Requesting More Details:
“We’d like to better understand your concerns so we can address them appropriately. Could you please provide more details?”
(By the way, if you're looking for even more help on replying to critical comments, give this blog post a read – "3-Step Recipe for Addressing Tough Parent Feedback.")
3. Follow-Up or Next Steps
These responses encourage continued communication or provide next steps for parents.
Offering Further Discussion:
“Thank you for your feedback! Would you be open to sharing more about your experience? We would love the opportunity to meet with you and address your feedback in-person. Are you available to meet with us at [include a meeting time or “office hours”].”
Providing a Contact for More Information:
“We’re happy to continue the conversation. If you have any further questions or would like to discuss this in more detail, please contact [school contact/email].”
4. Further Review
These responses inform parents that their feedback is being reviewed and can set expectations for follow-up.
Letting Them Know the Feedback is Being Reviewed:
“Thank you for your input! You have provided us with valuable input and we would like to take the time to review your comments further with our admin team.”
Providing a Timeline for Follow-Up:
“We’re taking a closer look at your feedback and will provide an update within [timeframe]. We appreciate your patience as we review this.”
5. Encouraging Future Engagement
These responses invite parents to keep up-to-date with the school while encouraging them to continue responding to your surveys.
Encouraging Future Feedback:
“We value your input and hope you’ll continue to share your thoughts with us in the future. Your voice matters! We’ll continue to provide opportunities for feedback throughout the year.”
Where to Find Updates:
“We’re always working to improve. Keep an eye on our school newsletter and website for updates on how we’re implementing your feedback and suggestions!”
By setting up saved responses, your school can enhance parent communication, save time, and ensure that every parent receives a thoughtful and timely reply.