‘Graphic’ Student Survey Sparks Dept. of Education Probe

The U.S. Department of Education’s Student Privacy Policy Office has launched a formal investigation into Burlington Public Schools, alleging the district violated parents’ rights by administering a sensitive student…

Andrew PowellAug 27, 20253 min read

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“During the past month, what flavors were your tobacco products?”

The Department of Education said it received multiple complaints from parents who claimed they had opted their children out of the survey, but their children were still given the questionnaire by school staff.

“The allegations that Burlington violated parents’ rights by administering a survey against parents’ wishes – and particularly one that is graphic, and downright inappropriate in nature – is unconscionable,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. “The Department will investigate this matter thoroughly and continue to resolutely defend parents’ rights.”

In response, Burlington Public Schools Superintendent Eric Conti acknowledged the concerns and said the district will fully cooperate with the investigation.

“Last winter, the District terminated its contract with the company that drafted the survey,” Conti stated. “The School Committee also unanimously voted that no new student surveys will be administered until a new policy is written and approved by the School Committee.”

Conti emphasized that parents were notified prior to April break in 2025 about the situation and the steps being taken. He also admitted the district had made “errors and mistakes” regarding communication and opt-out procedures.

“This is not a new issue, and the District has gone to great lengths to be transparent and forthcoming about the problems, unintentional as they were, with the 2025 YRBS,” Conti said.

The investigation could have wider implications as the federal government examines whether student privacy laws were violated and whether parental rights were disregarded — an issue that continues to fuel nationwide debates over school transparency and parental involvement.