These were the main points that were discussed at Thursday’s Better Together Commission meeting to discuss progress in community engagement efforts. Jennifer Johnson presented the results from a poll by LJR Custom Strategies in New Orleans. The survey surveyed 500 Jackson residents via telephone in January. Although 82 percent of respondents said they care deeply about the school system, only 18% said the district is on the right track. Johnson presented the results of a poll conducted by LJR Custom Strategies, New Orleans-based. The survey surveyed 500 adults via phone in Jackson in late January. Teachers received the highest response with 27 percent. Johnson stated that this surprise result was surprising. “Compared to what we’ve seen elsewhere,” Johnson said. Safety and school learning environments came second and third, respectively, for students and their families. Johnson stated that only 38% of respondents were aware of the commission, which was established by Gov. Phil Bryant was suggested as an alternative to a recommendation by the state Board of Education that the district be takenover by state education officials. Two meetings were held last fall by the group, and a series was held in December for community listening. Thursday’s meeting was their first public meeting this year. Insight Education Group’s Kate England gave the commission an overview of the five areas that the California-based consultant would address in its district study. Last month, the commission was informed that Insight had been selected to conduct a 10-month-long study of the district. They will then present their findings at the end. England, who is based in Connecticut, attended the meeting by phone. Insight will examine communications, special education, struggling students, general education students and central office staff. Later this month, the commission will continue community engagement efforts. A separate consultant will begin canvassing the city for 10 to 15 minute conversations about the district. This process will take between six and eight weeks. Future Better Together Meetings will be held at the Margaret Walker Alexander Library on the last Thursday each month at 4:15 pm.