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School Opinions Survey: What People Really Think

Discover survey results on school preferences, favorite subjects, and what people wish they learned. Insights on education trends and nostalgia.

MINDFUL STAFF
Aug 1, 2025
3 min read(412 words)
School Opinions Survey: What People Really Think

What’s the Best School Type?

  • 58% prefer public schools as their top choice
  • 17% favor private schools, while another 17% choose independent schools
  • Only 2% selected 'school of hard knocks' as their preferred option

Favorite School Subjects Revealed

  • Gym class surprisingly got just 3% of votes (though exercise remains important!)
  • Other popular subjects included math, science, and literature (based on general trends)

Should Meditation Be Taught in Schools?

  • 95% of respondents said YES to meditation in schools
  • Research shows meditation improves focus and reduces stress in students

How People Stay Connected With Classmates

  • 42% use social media (Facebook, Instagram, etc.)
  • 41% don't maintain contact with old classmates
  • 10% make phone calls, while 7% meet for coffee/lunch

What People Wish They Learned in School

Top 5 Most Desired Skills

  1. Financial planning and money management
  2. Stress management techniques
  3. Building confidence
  4. Practical computer repair skills
  5. Meditation and mindfulness

Other Notable Mentions:

  • Communication skills (especially with the opposite sex)
  • Life balance ("not sweating the small stuff")
  • Creative skills like jazz improvisation
  • The value of curiosity over grades

Unexpected Life Lessons From School

Non-Curricular Education

  • Social dynamics ("bullies crush your spirit")
  • Gender equality ("girls are just as good as boys")
  • The importance of caring and kindness
  • That "mean people suck" (with a smiley face)

What People Would Change About Schools

Most Requested Reforms:

  • Eliminate standardized testing (most popular demand)
  • Remove impractical curriculum that lacks real-world application
  • Reduce or eliminate homework
  • Start high school later to match teen sleep patterns
  • Increase recess time for younger students

Nostalgic School Lunch Favorites

Most Memorable Cafeteria Meals:

  • Comfort classics: Spaghetti with peanut butter sandwiches
  • 1980s/90s favorites: Corn dogs and pizza
  • Healthier options: Tofu, rice, and steamed broccoli
  • Retro specials: Creamed chipped beef on toast ("shit on a shingle")
  • Homemade alternatives: Book under a tree with a Coke

One Respondent's Memory:

"Roasted chicken with potatoes, peas, and applesauce. This lunch was served in our public school cafeteria by women and men who actually cooked lunches on site—it was the early '60s"

Key Takeaways About Education

This survey reveals that while people value traditional education, they crave more practical life skills and stress-reduction techniques like meditation. There's strong interest in reforming homework policies and standardized testing, while maintaining the social connections and nostalgic experiences that make school memorable.

MINDFUL STAFF

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