Appendix B. 

NHES:2015 Screener Survey
24114019

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NHES-1B 

(12/06/2013)

OMB No. 1850-0803: Approval Expires 09/30/2016

National Household Education Survey

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE 

Economics and Statistics Administration 

U.S. Census Bureau 

The National Center for Education Statistics is authorized to conduct this survey under U.S. Code Title 20, Section

9543 (20 USC § 9543). Your participation is voluntary. Your answers may be used only for statistical purposes and

may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form for any other purpose except as required by law (20 USC §

9573). The information you provide will be combined with information from other participants to produce statistical

summaries and reports.
The Department of Education is 

studying the education and training 

experiences of adults and children. 

Each household is different, and we 

need your response so we can send 

you a survey that is right for your 

household.

Return this form even if there 

are only one or two people in

the household.

This survey should be filled out 

by an adult household member

living at this address.

Please use a blue or black pen if 

available.

1. How many people live in this

household?

Include adults and children who

are temporarily away from home

(for example, living in college

housing) if they have no other

permanent home.

▼

▼

▼

24114027

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2. What is his or

her first name,

initials, or

nickname?

You / Person 1

3. What is this

person’s

month and

year of birth?

5. Is this person

currently in

6. What is this

person’s

current grade

or equivalent?

Female

Male

Public or private

school, or preschool,

. . . Homeschool instead

of school for some

or all classes,

Not in school?

GO TO person 2.

Preschool

Kindergarten

write grade

1 through 12

College, university or

vocational school

None of these

Person 2

Female

Male

Public or private

school, or preschool,

Homeschool instead

of school for some

or all classes,

Not in school?

GO TO person 3.

Preschool

Kindergarten

write grade

1 through 12

College, university or

vocational school

None of these

First names will

be used only to

ask you questions

about the education

of a specific person.

▼ ▼

First name/initials/nickname First name/initials/nickname

College, university or

vocational school, or

College, university or

vocational school, or

Start Here

4. What is this

person’s sex?

Mark [X] ONE only.

NHES-1B

2

National Household Education Survey

Continue answering 

questions 2 through 6 for 

each person living in this

household. Include all 

adults and children. Start

with yourself.

month year

/

month year

/
If there are more than 5 people in your household, continue on the next page. Otherwise, stop here and

return this form in the postage-paid envelope provided.

24114035

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Person 4 Person 5

▼ ▼

First name/initials/nickname First name/initials/nickname

3

▼

Person 3

▼

First name/initials/nickname

Conducted for: 

U.S. Department of Education 

National Center for Education Statistics

Female

Male

Public or private

school, or preschool,

Homeschool instead

of school for some

or all classes,

Not in school?

GO TO person 4.

Preschool

Kindergarten

write grade

1 through 12

College, university or

vocational school

None of these

College, university or

vocational school, or

Female

Male

Public or private

school, or preschool,

Homeschool instead

of school for some

or all classes,

Not in school?

GO TO page 4.

Preschool

Kindergarten

write grade

1 through 12

College, university or

vocational school

None of these

College, university or

vocational school, or

Female

Male

Public or private

school, or preschool,

Homeschool instead

of school for some

or all classes,

Not in school?

GO TO person 5.

Preschool

Kindergarten

write grade

1 through 12

College, university or

vocational school

None of these

College, university or

vocational school, or

NHES-1B

month year

/

month year

/

month year

/
2. What is his or

her first name,

initials, or

nickname?

Person 6 Person 7

▼ ▼

First name/initials/nickname First name/initials/nickname

If there are more than 5 people in

your household, please continue

answering for each person living

in this household.

If you have finished answering about 

everyone in the household please 

return the survey in the postage-paid 

envelope provided.

24114043

§9,IL¤

Continue

4

National Household Education Survey

First names will

be used only to

ask you questions

about the education

of a specific person.

3. What is this

person’s

month and

year of birth?

5. Is this person

currently in

6. What is this

person’s

current grade

or equivalent?

Female

Male

Public or private

school, or preschool,

. . . Homeschool instead

of school for some

or all classes,

Not in school?

GO TO person 7.

Preschool

Kindergarten

write grade

1 through 12

College, university or

vocational school

None of these

Female

Male

Public or private

school, or preschool,

Homeschool instead

of school for some

or all classes,

Not in school?

GO TO person 8.

Preschool

Kindergarten

write grade

1 through 12

College, university or

vocational school

None of these

College, university or

vocational school, or

College, university or

vocational school, or

4. What is this

person’s sex?

Mark [X] ONE only.

NHES-1B

month year

/

month year

/
Person 9 Person 10

▼ ▼

First name/initials/nickname First name/initials/nickname

Person 8

▼

First name/initials/nickname

Please verify you have filled out a column for everyone in your household.

24114050

5 §9,IS¤

▼

▼

Thank you. Please return this form in the postage-paid envelope provided or mail it to:

U.S. Census Bureau

ATTN: DCB 60-A 

1201 E. 10th Street

Jeffersonville, IN 47132-0001

Toll-free number for questions: 1-888-840-8353

Conducted for: 

U.S. Department of Education 

National Center for Education Statistics

Female

Male

Public or private

school, or preschool,

Homeschool instead

of school for some

or all classes,

Not in school?

GO TO person 9.

Preschool

Kindergarten

write grade

1 through 12

College, university or

vocational school

None of these

College, university or

vocational school, or

Female

Male

Public or private

school, or preschool,

Homeschool instead

of school for some

or all classes,

Not in school?

Return survey.

Preschool

Kindergarten

write grade

1 through 12

College, university or

vocational school

None of these

College, university or

vocational school, or

Female

Male

Public or private

school, or preschool,

Homeschool instead

of school for some

or all classes,

Not in school?

GO TO person 10.

Preschool

Kindergarten

write grade

1 through 12

College, university or

vocational school

None of these

College, university or

vocational school, or

NHES-1B

month year

/

month year

/

month year

/
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THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

6

NHES-1B
24114076

7 §9,Im¤

Thank you. 

Please return this questionnaire in the postage-paid envelope provided.

If you have lost the envelope, mail the completed questionnaire to: 

U.S. Census Bureau

ATTN: DCB 60-A 

1201 E. 10th Street

Jeffersonville, IN 47132-0001

NHES-1B
24114084

8 §9,Iu¤

Commonly Asked Questions

Q: How did you get my address?

A: Your address was randomly selected from among all of the home addresses in the nation. It was 

selected using scientific sampling methods to represent other households in the U.S.

Q: Why don’t you ask more questions about education in this questionnaire?

A: The purpose of this questionnaire is to find out if anyone in your household is eligible for the next

stage of the survey. If so, we will send a second questionnaire that will ask about educational 

experiences of a member of your household.

Q: If there are no children or anyone currently in school in my household, should I respond?

A: Yes, you should respond to this survey. Once you return the questionnaire, the study will be able 

to see if anyone in your household is eligible for the next and final survey. If no one is eligible, 

you will not receive another survey.

Q: Why should I take part in this study? Do I have to do this?

A: This survey is the only way that the Department of Education can learn about children’s afterschool care and adult training and education from your perspective. You represent thousands of 

other households like yours, and you cannot be replaced. Your answers and opinions are very 

important to the success of this study. You may choose not to answer any or all questions in this 

survey. In order for the survey to be representative, it is important that you complete and return 

this questionnaire. Those who do not return the survey will not be represented in key statistics 

used by policymakers and researchers.

Q: How will the information I provide be used? Will my privacy be protected?

A: Your responses will be combined with those of others to produce statistical summaries and 

reports. Your individual data will not be reported. Your answers may be used only for statistical 

purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form for any other purpose except as 

required by law (20 USC § 9573).

Q: How much time will it take?

A: On average, it should take 8 minutes or less for you to respond, including the time for 

reviewing instructions and completing and reviewing the collection of information.

NHES-1B

Q: Who is sponsoring this study?

A: The National Center for Education Statistics, within the U.S. Department of Education, is authorized 

to conduct this study (20 USC § 9543). The U.S. Census Bureau is conducting this study on behalf of the 

U.S. Department of Education. This study has been approved by the Office of Management and Budget, 

the office that reviews all federally sponsored surveys. 

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of 

information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this voluntary 

survey is 1850-0803. The average time required to complete this survey is estimated to average 5-10

minutes per response, including the time to review instructions, gather the data needed, and complete and 

review the survey. If you have any comments concerning the accuracy of the time estimate, suggestions for 

improving the survey, or any comments or concerns regarding the status of your individual submission of 

this survey, please write to: Andrew Zukerberg, National Center for Education Statistics, National 

Household Education Surveys (NHES), 1990 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20006-5650. You may send 

email to NHES@census.gov.

Q: What if I have other questions?

A: If you have any questions about the study, you may send e-mail to NHES@census.gov or you may call 

the Census Bureau toll-free at 1-888-840-8353
Appendix C. NHES:2015 Topical Surveys

C.1 Credentials for Work Survey (CWS) 

C.2 Training for Work Survey (TWS) 

C.3 Early Childhood Program Participation (ECPP) Survey 

C.4 Parent and Family Involvement in Education (PFI) Survey for Enrolled Students 

C.5 Parent and Family Involvement in Education (PFI) Survey for Homeschooled Students 
C.1 Credentials for Work Survey (CWS) 
Adult Training and Education Survey

Part of the 2015 National Household Education Survey

Ad

ul t 

Conducted by

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Economics and Statistics Administration

U.S. Census Bureau

Adult Training and Education Survey

Part of the 2015 National Household Education Survey

OMB No. 1850-0803: Approval Expires 09/30/2016

Thank you for helping us with this 

survey. Based on the information 

we received from your household 

in your last survey, we’re asking 

you to complete this final step.
2

This page left blank intentionally.
3

Instructions

 In response to the survey you answered earlier, we recorded that the 

person listed below is between the ages of 16 to 65, is not in high school, 

and lives in this household. If this information is not correct, please call us 

at the toll-free number below so we can be sure you received the correct 

survey.

 These questions should be filled out by:

No one else in the household should fill out the survey.

 You might be asked to skip questions that do not apply to you. Follow the 

arrows to answer the questions that apply to you. Please see the example 

below: 

 No 

 Yes

 To answer a question, simply mark the box [X] that best represents your 

answer.

 Use a black or blue pen, if available, to complete this survey.

 Please return the completed survey using the postage-paid envelope 

provided.

 If you have any questions about this survey, please call us at our toll-free 

number: 1-888-840-8353.

We are authorized to collect this information by U.S. Code, Title 20, Section 9543. You do not have to provide the 

information requested. However, the information you provide will help the Department of Education’s ongoing efforts to 

learn more about the educational experiences of adults. There are no penalties should you choose not to participate in 

this study. Your answers may be used only for statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable 

form for any other purpose except as required by law (U.S. Code, Title 20, Section 9573). Your responses will be 

combined with those from other participants to produce summary statistics and reports. 

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information 

unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this voluntary survey is 1850-0803. 

The time required to complete this survey is estimated to average 10 minutes per response, including the time to 

review instructions, gather the data needed, and complete and review the survey. If you have any comments 

concerning the accuracy of the time estimate, suggestions for improving this survey, or any comments or concerns 

regarding the status of your individual submission of this survey, please write to: Lisa Hudson, National Center for 

Education Statistics, National Household Education Surveys (NHES), 1990 K Street, NW, Washington, DC 20006. You 

may send email to NHES@census.gov.

GO TO question 12
4

1. What is the highest degree or level of school you

have completed? (Mark one.)

 Elementary or high school, 

but no high school diploma 

or GED®

 High school diploma

 GED® or alternative high school 

credential

 Some college credit but less than 

one year of college credit

 1 or more years of college credit, 

no degree

 Associate’s degree (for example, AA, AS)

 Bachelor’s degree (for example, BA, BS)

 Master’s degree (for example, MA, MS, 

MEng, MEd, MSW, MBA)

 Professional degree beyond a bachelor’s 

degree (for example, MD, DDS, DVM, LLB, JD)

 Doctorate degree (for example, PhD, EdD)

Level of Education 2. What was the major or field of study for your

highest degree or level of education? (Mark one.)

If there was more than one, please choose the one

you consider most important.

 General studies, no major, undeclared major

 Accounting, finance, insurance, real estate

 Administrative support 

 Arts, music, design 

 Audio, broadcasting, multimedia, or graphics 

technologies 

 Business management, marketing

 Communications, journalism

 Computer science, information technology

 Construction, repair, manufacturing, 

transportation

 Education

 Engineering, architecture

 English language, literature

 Family or consumer science

 Healthcare, nursing, medicine 

 Law enforcement, security, firefighting 

 Law, legal studies

 Liberal arts

 Political science, economics, history, other 

social sciences 

 Psychology 

 Religious vocations, theology

 Sciences (biological or physical), mathematics

 Social or human services, public 

administration

 Other (specify)
5

3. Do you have a currently active professional

certification or a state or industry license? Do not

include business licenses, such as a liquor license or

vending license.

A professional certification or license shows you are

qualified to perform a specific job and includes things

like Licensed Realtor, Certified Medical Assistant,

Certified Teacher, or an IT certification.

 No 

 Yes

4. If yes, how many certifications and licenses do you

have?

If you had to get a certification in order to get a

license, count each certification and license

separately.

Number of certifications and licenses

Certifications and Licenses

GO TO question 10

CONTINUE on the next page. 
6

5. Please answer questions 5a – 5d for each currently active certification and license you have, up to three.

If you have more than three, answer for the three you last earned or renewed.

Certification or License 

#1

Certification or License 

#2

Certification or License 

#3

5a. What is the name of the 

certification or license?

Do not include college 

degrees.

5b. Using Table A on the next 

page, what is its subject 

field?

Number

from Table A

Number

from Table A

Number

from Table A

5c. Was it issued by the 

federal, state, or local 

government?

 (For example, by a state 

board of education or 

other state board, OSHA, 

or FAA)

 No

 Yes

 Don’t know

 No

 Yes

 Don’t know

 No

 Yes

 Don’t know

5d. Is it for your current job? 

(Mark one.)

 If you are not employed, 

answer “no”.

 No

 Yes, and it is 

required

 Yes, but it is not 

required

 No

 Yes, and it is 

required

 Yes, but it is not 

required

 No

 Yes, and it is 

required

 Yes, but it is not 

required

6. Of the certifications and licenses that you listed

above, which did you earn or renew last?

(Mark one.)

 Certification or license #1

 Certification or license #2

 Certification or license #3

CONTINUE on page 8.
7

TABLE A. FIELD OF CERTIFICATION OR LICENSE CODES FOR QUESTION 5b 

1. EMT, CPR, basic first aid

2. Health care (for fitness use code 13) Includes

nursing, health care technologist or technician,

medical practitioners (such as MD, OD, PA, DC,

PharmD, DVM), and health care specialties.

3. Accounting, finance, insurance, real estate

(for notary public use code 12)

4. Business management or operations

Includes project management, Six Sigma, Lean

Manufacturing, and other business management

and operations.

5. Childcare

6. Computer science, information technology 

Includes software development and applications,

networking, and other computer and information

technologies.

7. Cosmetology, barbering

8. Engineering, architecture, energy

Includes engineering and engineering technologies, architecture, drafting, LEED, energy auditing

and other similar fields.

9. Food handling, sanitation

Includes food handling, water treatment and

sanitation, hazardous waste operations, and other

sanitation fields.

10. Funeral, mortuary, taxidermy

11. Legal practice

12. Notary public

Nursing (use code 2)

13. Physical fitness

Includes personal or athletic trainer, yoga

instructor, and other fitness instruction.

14. Public safety , security

Includes law enforcement, firefighting,

flight attendant, and other public safety

services (for water and hazardous waste

treatment use code 9).

15. Religious ordination

16. Skilled trades

Includes auto repair, HVAC installation and

maintenance, construction trades, welder,

machinist, and manufacturing or production

technician.

17. Social work, counseling

18. Teaching

Includes preschool through grade 12 teaching,

TESOL, and adult education. (For other

instructional fields, use the code for that field;

for example, flight instructors use code 19 for

transportation.)

19. Transportation

Includes CDL, aviation or marine

piloting, and other transportation

work (for flight attendant use code

14).

20. Other fields not listed above
8

7. How useful has your last certification or license

been for each of the following?

a. Getting a job (Mark one.)

 Not useful

 Somewhat useful

 Very useful

 Too soon to tell

b. Keeping a job (Mark one.)

 Not useful

 Somewhat useful

 Very useful

 Too soon to tell

c. Increasing your pay (Mark one.)

 Not useful

 Somewhat useful

 Very useful

 Too soon to tell

d. Keeping you marketable to employers or

clients (Mark one.)

 Not useful

 Somewhat useful

 Very useful

 Too soon to tell

e. Improving your work skills (Mark one.)

 Not useful

 Somewhat useful

 Very useful

 Too soon to tell

CONTINUE on the next page.

The rest of this section asks about the certification 

or license from question 6 that you last earned or 

renewed. 

 ▼ ▼ 

8. Did you do any of the following to prepare for

earning your last certification or license? (Mark

ONE box in each row below.)

9. The next time your last certification or license is up

for renewal, do you plan to renew it or let it expire?

(Mark one.)

 Renew it

 Let it expire

 Have not decided

 It does not have to be renewed

No Yes 

a. Earned a college degree

b. Took classes from a college,

technical school, or trade

school (no degree)

c. Took classes or training

from a company,

association, union, or

private instructor

d. Studied on my own using

textbooks or on-line

resources

e. Participated in on-the-job

training, an internship, or

apprenticeship
9

Certificates

10. People sometimes earn certificates for completing

an education or training program. A certificate is

different from a certification or license. Do NOT

include certifications/licenses here; include them

in the previous section only. Have you ever earned

any of the following types of certificates?

a. A certificate for completing a training program

from an employer, employment agency, union,

software or equipment manufacturer, or other

training provider, but NOT from a school.

 No

 Yes

b. A certificate for completing a vocational

program at a high school.

 No

 Yes

c. A high school equivalency certificate, such as a

GED®.

 No

 Yes

d. A certificate—rather than a degree—for

completing a program at a community or technical college, or other school after high school.

Do not include teaching certificates or college

degrees.

 No

 Yes

11. (If yes.) We will refer to the certificates in question

10d as “post-secondary certificates.” Where did

you get your last post-secondary certificate? (Mark

one.)

 A community college

 A vocational, technical, trade, or business 

school

 Another college or university

 Someplace else

Specify:______________

If you do NOT have a post-secondary certificate, go 

to question 19.

GO TO question 19 

12. What was the field of study for your last

post-secondary certificate? (Mark one.)

 Accounting, finance, insurance, real estate

 Administrative support 

 Agriculture

 Arts, music, design 

 Audio, broadcasting, multimedia, or graphics 

technologies

 Business management, marketing

 Computer science, information technology

 Construction trades

 Cosmetology

 Culinary arts

 Drafting, engineering technologies

 Education

 Family or consumer science

 Funeral or mortuary science

 Healthcare, nursing

 Law enforcement, security, firefighting

 Law, legal studies

 Liberal arts

 Manufacturing, production (for example 

machinist, welder, boilermaker)

 Mechanic, repair technologies

 Transportation, materials moving

 Other (specify)
10

13. About how many hours of instruction did you

complete in order to earn your last post-secondary

certificate? (Mark one.)

 480 or more hours (12 or more full-time 

weeks) 

 160 to 479 hours (4 full-time weeks to 

less than 12 full-time weeks) 

 40-159 hours (1 full-time week to less 

than 4 full-time weeks)

 Less than 40 hours (less than 1 full-time 

week)

14. Which one of the following best describes the

requirement for enrolling in your last postsecondary certificate program? (Mark one.)

 It required enrollment in or prior 

completion of an advanced degree program 

(Master’s or higher). 

 It required enrollment in or prior 

completion of a Bachelor’s degree program.

 It required prior completion of high school 

or high school equivalency.

 It did not have any of these educational 

requirements.

15. Did completing your last post-secondary certificate

require any of the following? (Mark ONE box in

each row below.)

16. Is your last post-secondary certificate related to

your current job?

If you are not employed, answer “no.”

 No

 Yes 

17. How useful has your last post-secondary certificate

been for each of the following?

a. Getting a job (Mark one.)

 Not useful

 Somewhat useful

 Very useful

 Too soon to tell

b. Increasing your pay (Mark one.)

 Not useful

 Somewhat useful

 Very useful

 Too soon to tell

c. Improving your work skills (Mark one.)

 Not useful

 Somewhat useful

 Very useful

 Too soon to tell

18. Was your last post-secondary certificate part of

the training you took for a professional certification or license?

 No 

 Yes

 No Yes

 ▼ ▼

a. Passing a test or exam

b. Some other evaluation of

my knowledge or

performance

c. Completion of a minimum

number of credits

d. Completion of a minimum

number of instructional

hours
11

19. People sometimes prepare to enter a trade or

profession through a program that combines work

experience with education or formal training. Have

you ever COMPLETED one of these types of work

experience programs—an internship, student

teaching, co-op, practicum, clerkship, externship,

residency, clinical experience, or apprenticeship?

 No

 Yes

20. If yes, do any of the following statements describe

your last work experience program? (Mark ONE box

in each row below.)

Work Experience Programs

GO TO question 21 

If you did NOT complete any of the types of 

work experience programs listed above, go to 

question 21. If you DID complete a program, 

answer the following question about the last 

work experience program you completed.

b. I got college credit for it.

a. It did or will help me earn a

certification or license.

c. I received journeyman

status at the end of an

apprenticeship.

d. I got a state or federal

apprenticeship registration

number.

 No Yes

 ▼ ▼

21. Since leaving high school, have you taken any of the

following types of classes?

a. Classes to learn English as a second language,

sometimes called ESL classes.

 No

 Yes

b. Literacy classes to help improve my reading. Do

not include college classes.

 No

 Yes

c. Classes to earn a high school equivalency (such

as the GED®).

 No

 Yes

22. How many college classes have you taken in the

past 12 months, including for-credit and non-credit

classes?

 None

 One

 Two

 Three or more

23. If one or more, did you take these classes as part of

a degree program, or to transfer to a degree

program?

 No

 Yes, as part of a degree program

 Yes, to transfer to a degree program

College and Other Classes

CONTINUE on the next page. 

GO TO question 24
12

26. Last week, were you employed for pay at a job or

business?

If you were temporarily absent from a job or 

business (on vacation, temporarily ill, on 

maternity leave, etc.), answer “Yes”.

 No 

 Yes 

27. If yes, for the job or business you were in last

week, were you a member of a labor union or of

an employee association similar to a union (for

example, AFL-CIO, Change to Win Federation,

NEA)?

 No 

 Yes 

28. Last week, how many jobs did you have?

Number of jobs 

29. Last week, did you work at a full-time job (a job

where you work 35 hours or more per week)?

 No 

 Yes 

30. Last week, did you work at a part-time job (a job

where you work fewer than 35 hours per week)?

 No 

 Yes 

31. If yes, would you have preferred to work at a fulltime job?

 No 

 Yes

 Employment

GO TO question 36

GO TO question 32 

GO TO question 36

24. People often participate in courses, training, or

other instruction for work.

These trainings can include classes, seminars, workshops, or on-line instruction. They can be taken at the 

workplace or somewhere else, and can include topics 

such as:

 Job safety, security, sexual harassment,

ethics, or other regulations,

 Equipment use,

 Communication, sensitivity, or team-building,

 Computer or technical skills,

 Management skills, and

 Other job skills.

Have you completed any work-related training in 

the past 12 months? 

 No 

 Yes

25. If yes, how many work-related trainings have you

completed in the past 12 months?

Count multiple sessions of the same training as one 

training.

Number of trainings

Training for Work

GO TO question 26
13

38. In your current or last job, which one of the

following were you? (Mark one.)

If you had more than one job, describe the one at 

which you worked the most hours. If you had no job 

or business last week, give information for your last 

job or business.

 An employee of a private (for-profit or not-forprofit) company or business, or of an individual, 

for wages, salary, or commission

 A local (city, county, etc.), state, or federal 

government employee 

 Self-employed in own business, professional 

practice, or farm

 Working without pay in family business or farm

39. For whom did you work?

 If now on active duty in the Armed Forces, mark 

(X) this box and print the branch of the Armed 

Forces below. All others, enter name of 

company, business, or other employer below.

Name of company, business, or other employer:

40. What kind of business or industry was this?

(For example: hospital, newspaper publishing, 

mail order house, auto engine manufacturing, 

bank)

32. Last week, were you on layoff from a job?

 No 

 Yes 

33. During the last 4 weeks, have you been actively

looking for work?

 No 

 Yes 

34. If no, do you intend to look for work within the

next 5 years?

 No 

 Yes 

 Don’t know

35. When did you last work, even for a few days?

(Mark one.)

 Never worked 

for pay

 Over 12 months 

ago 

 Within the past 

12 months 

36. During the past 12 months (52 weeks), how many

weeks did you work, including paid vacation, paid

sick leave, and military service? (Mark one.)

 50 to 52 weeks

 48 to 49 weeks

 40 to 47 weeks

 27 to 39 weeks

 14 to 26 weeks

 13 weeks or less

37. During the past 12 months, in the weeks you

worked, how many hours did you usually work

each WEEK?

Usual hours worked each WEEK 

GO TO question 

48

GO TO question 

38

GO TO question 35
14

41. What kind of work were you doing?

(For example: registered nurse, personnel manager, 

supervisor of order department, secretary, 

accountant)

42. What were your most important activities or

duties?

(For example: patient care, directing hiring policies, 

supervising order clerks, typing and filing, 

reconciling financial records)

43. Did you have a license that was required by a

federal, state, or local government agency to do

this job?

 No 

 Yes 

44. Which category best fits your earnings from

wages, salary, commissions, bonuses or tips, from

your current or last job over the past 12 months?

(Mark one.)

Report amount before deductions for taxes, 

bonds, dues, or other items.

 $0 to $10,000

 $10,001 to $20,000

 $20,001 to $30,000

 $30,001 to $40,000

 $40,001 to $50,000 

 $50,001 to $60,000 

 $60,001 to $75,000

 $75,001 to $150,000

 $150,001 or more

45. What kind of position did you hold? (Mark one.)

 Permanent 

 Temporary 

46. Would you have preferred to work at a

permanent job?

 No 

 Yes 

47. How many people worked for your employer?

Count employees at all locations. (Mark one.)

If you were self-employed, how many people 

worked for you, including yourself? 

 1—49 people

 50—499 people

 500—999 people

 1,000 or more people

GO TO question 

47
15

54. Do you speak a language other than English at

home?

 No

 Yes

55. How well do you speak English? (Mark one.)

 Very well

 Well

 Not well

 Not at all

56. How old are you?

years old

57. Are you of Hispanic or Latino origin?

 No

 Yes

58. What is your race? Choose one or more.

 White

 Black or African American

 Asian

 American Indian or Alaska Native

 Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander

GO TO question 56

Thank You.

Please return this questionnaire in the 

postage-paid envelope provided. If you have 

lost the envelope, mail the completed 

questionnaire to:

National Household Education Survey

[RETURN ADDRESS HERE]

48. Have you ever served on active duty in the U.S.

Armed Forces, Reserves, or National Guard?

(Mark one.)

 No, never served 

in the military

 Yes, but only on active duty 

for training in the Reserve or 

National Guard

 Yes, on active duty now or in past

49. Have you served on active duty since September

2001?

 No

 Yes

50. Are you male or female?

 Male

 Female

51. What is your current marital status? (Mark one.)

 Now Married

 Widowed

 Divorced

 Separated

 Never married

52. Are you currently living with a boyfriend/girlfriend

or partner?

 No

 Yes

53. Are you currently in a registered domestic

partnership or civil union?

 No

 Yes

Background

GO TO 

question 50

GO TO question 54
16

Commonly Asked Questions

Q: How was my household chosen?

A: Your address was randomly selected from among all of the home addresses in the nation. It was selected 

using scientific sampling methods to represent other U.S. households. The sample was designed so that surveys of only a few thousand people will accurately describe the educational experiences of almost all Americans. 

Q: Why should I participate? Do I have to do this?

A: Your answers are very important to the success of this study. You represent thousands of other adults like 

yourself, and you cannot be replaced. This survey is voluntary. You may choose not to answer any or all 

questions in this survey, but in order for the survey to be representative, it is important that you complete and 

return it. Those who do not return the survey will not be represented in statistics used by policymakers and 

researchers. There are no penalties should you choose not to participate in the study. 

Q: Will the information I provide be kept confidential? Will my privacy be protected?

A: Your responses will be combined with those from other adults to produce statistical summaries about 

education and training in the United States. Your individual data will not be reported. Your answers may be 

used only for statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form for any other purpose except as required by law (20 USC § 9573). 

Q: How will my response help the Federal Government?

A: The U.S. Departments of Education and Labor want to understand how adults acquire and maintain the skills 

they need for work. This survey is the only way these Departments can learn about the education and training that adults receive from schools, employers, and other training sponsors. The survey will allow policymakers and researchers to better understand the demand for education and training programs, and can help 

direct national policy in these areas. Your responses will be combined with those from other households to 

inform educators, policy makers, and schools about how adults in the U.S. learn the skills needed for work. 

Q: Who is sponsoring this study?

A: The National Center for Education Statistics, within the U.S. Department of Education, is authorized 

to conduct this study (20 USC § 9543). The U.S. Census Bureau is conducting this study on behalf of the 

U.S. Department of Education. This study has been approved by the Office of Management and Budget, 

the office that reviews all federally sponsored surveys. 

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of 

information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this voluntary 

survey is 1850-0803. The average time required to complete this survey is estimated to average 10 

minutes per response, including the time to review instructions, gather the data needed, and complete and 

review the survey. If you have any comments concerning the accuracy of the time estimate, suggestions 

for improving the survey, or any comments or concerns regarding the status of your individual submission 

of this survey, please write to: Lisa Hudson, National Center for Education Statistics, National Household 

Education Surveys (NHES), 1990 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20006-5650. You may send email to 

NHES@census.gov.

Q: What if I have other questions?

A: If you have any questions about the study, you may send e-mail to NHES@census.gov or you may call 

the Census Bureau toll-free at 1-888-840-8353
C.2 Training for Work Survey (TWS) 
Conducted by

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Economics and Statistics Administration

U.S. Census Bureau

Adult Training and Education Survey

Part of the 2015 National Household Education Survey

OMB No. 1850-0803: Approval Expires 09/30/2016

Thank you for helping us with this 

survey. Based on the information 

we received from your household 

in your last survey, we’re asking 

you to complete this final step.
2

This page left blank intentionally.
3

Instructions

 In response to the survey you answered earlier, we recorded that the 

person listed below is between the ages of 16 to 65, is not in high school, 

and lives in this household. If this information is not correct, please call us 

at the toll-free number below so we can be sure you received the correct 

survey.

 These questions should be filled out by:

No one else in the household should fill out the survey.

 You might be asked to skip questions that do not apply to you. Follow the 

arrows to answer the questions that apply to you. Please see the example 

below: 

 No 

 Yes

 To answer a question, simply mark the box [X] that best represents your 

answer.

 Use a black or blue pen, if available, to complete this survey.

 Please return the completed survey using the postage-paid envelope 

provided.

 If you have any questions about this survey, please call us at our toll-free 

number: 1-888-840-8353.

We are authorized to collect this information by U.S. Code, Title 20, Section 9543. You do not have to provide the 

information requested. However, the information you provide will help the Department of Education’s ongoing efforts to 

learn more about the educational experiences of adults. There are no penalties should you choose not to participate in 

this study. Your answers may be used only for statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable 

form for any other purpose except as required by law (U.S. Code, Title 20, Section 9573). Your responses will be 

combined with those from other participants to produce summary statistics and reports. 

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information 

unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this voluntary survey is 1850-0803. 

The time required to complete this survey is estimated to average 10 minutes per response, including the time to 

review instructions, gather the data needed, and complete and review the survey. If you have any comments 

concerning the accuracy of the time estimate, suggestions for improving this survey, or any comments or concerns 

regarding the status of your individual submission of this survey, please write to: Lisa Hudson, National Center for 

Education Statistics, National Household Education Surveys (NHES), 1990 K Street, NW, Washington, DC 20006. You 

may send email to NHES@census.gov.

GO TO question 12
4

1. What is the highest degree or level of school you

have completed? (Mark one.)

 Elementary or high school, 

but no high school diploma 

or GED®

 High school diploma

 GED® or alternative high school 

credential

 Some college credit but less than 

one year of college credit

 1 or more years of college credit, 

no degree

 Associate’s degree (for example, AA, AS)

 Bachelor’s degree (for example, BA, BS)

 Master’s degree (for example, MA, MS, 

MEng, MEd, MSW, MBA)

 Professional degree beyond a bachelor’s 

degree (for example, MD, DDS, DVM, LLB, JD)

 Doctorate degree (for example, PhD, EdD)

Level of Education 2. What was the major or field of study for your

highest degree or level of education? (Mark one.)

If there was more than one, please choose the one

you consider most important.

 General studies, no major, undeclared major

 Accounting, finance, insurance, real estate

 Administrative support 

 Arts, music, design 

 Audio, broadcasting, multimedia, or graphics 

technologies 

 Business management, marketing

 Communications, journalism

 Computer science, information technology

 Construction, repair, manufacturing, 

transportation

 Education

 Engineering, architecture

 English language, literature

 Family or consumer science

 Healthcare, nursing, medicine 

 Law enforcement, security, firefighting

 Law, legal studies

 Liberal arts

 Political science, economics, history, other 

social sciences 

 Psychology 

 Religious vocations, theology

 Sciences (biological or physical), mathematics

 Social or human services, public 

administration

 Other (specify)
5

3. Do you have a currently active professional

certification or a state or industry license? Do not

include business licenses, such as a liquor license or

vending license.

A professional certification or license shows you are

qualified to perform a specific job and includes things

like Licensed Realtor, Certified Medical Assistant,

Certified Teacher, or an IT certification.

 No 

 Yes

4. If yes, how many certifications and licenses do you

have?

If you had to get a certification in order to get a

license, count each certification and license

separately.

Number of certifications and licenses

Certifications and Licenses

GO TO question 5

CONTINUE on the next page. 
6

Certificates

5. People sometimes earn certificates for completing

an education or training program. A certificate is

different from a certification or license. Do NOT

include certifications/licenses here; include them

in the previous section only. Have you ever earned

any of the following types of certificates?

a. A certificate for completing a training program

from an employer, employment agency, union,

software or equipment manufacturer, or other

training provider, but NOT from a school.

 No

 Yes

b. A certificate for completing a vocational

program at a high school.

 No

 Yes

c. A high school equivalency certificate, such as a

GED®.

 No

 Yes

d. A certificate—rather than a degree—for

completing a program at a community or technical college, or other school after high school.

Do not include teaching certificates or college

degrees.

 No

 Yes

6. If yes, in the rest of this section we will refer to the

certificates described in question 5d as “postsecondary certificates.” Where did you get your

last post-secondary certificate? (Mark one.)

 A community college

 A vocational, technical, trade, or business 

school

 Another college or university

 Someplace else

Specify:______________

If you do NOT have a post-secondary certificate, go 

to question 8.

GO TO question 8

7. About how many hours of instruction did you

complete in order to earn your last post-secondary

certificate? (Mark one.)

 480 or more hours (12 or more full-time 

weeks) 

 160 to 479 hours (4 full-time weeks to 

less than 12 full-time weeks) 

 40-159 hours (1 full-time week to less 

than 4 full-time weeks)

 Less than 40 hours (less than 1 full-time 

week)
7

8. People sometimes prepare to enter a trade or

profession through a program that combines work

experience with education or formal training. Have

you ever COMPLETED one of these types of work

experience programs—an internship, student

teaching, co-op, practicum, clerkship, externship,

residency, clinical experience, or apprenticeship?

 No

 Yes

9. If yes, how long was your last work experience program? (Mark one.)

 Less than 3 months

 3 months to less than 6 months

 6 months to less than 1 year

 1 year to less than 2 years 

 2 years to less than 3 years

 3 years or more

10. What wage did you earn as part of your last work

experience program? (Mark one.)

 No wage

 A training wage that was lower than the 

wage of a fully qualified worker

 The same wage as a fully qualified worker

Work Experience Programs

11. During your last work experience program, did you

do any of the following? (Mark ONE box in each row

below.)

GO TO question 18 

If you did NOT complete any of the types of 

work experience programs listed above, go to 

question 18. If you DID complete a program, answer the rest of this section about the last work 

experience program you completed.

a. Took classes from a college,

technical school, or trade

school

b. Took classes or training

from a company,

association, union, or

private instructor

c. Studied on my own using

textbooks or on-line

resources

d. Got instruction from a

mentor or coworker at my

worksite

e. Got evaluated by a mentor

or supervisor

 No Yes

 ▼ ▼
8

12. Did you take your last work experience program

as part of a school’s education or training

program? (Mark one.)

 No

 Yes, as part of a high school program

 Yes, as part of a post-secondary certificate 

program from a community college, 

technical college, or other school after 

high school

 Yes, as part of an associate’s degree 

program

 Yes, as part of a bachelor’s degree program

 Yes, as part of an advanced degree 

program

13. Do any of the following statements describe your

last work experience program? (Mark ONE box in

each row below.)

b. I got college credit for it.

a. It did or will help me earn a

certification or license.

c. I received journeyman

status at the end of an

apprenticeship.

d. I got a state or federal

apprenticeship registration

number.

 No Yes

 ▼ ▼

14. What type of work was your last work experience

program for? (Mark one.)

Building or construction trades 

 Carpenter

 Electrician

 Plumber, pipefitter

 Sheet metal worker, structural-steel 

worker

 Other building and construction trades

Health care, nursing, medicine

 Medical doctor

 Nursing

 Other healthcare

 Accounting, finance, insurance, real estate

 Chef, cook, food preparation

 Computer networking, programming

 Cosmetology, barbering

 Driving, piloting, or other transport

 Engineering, architecture

 Funeral/mortuary services

 Legal practice

 Machinist, tool and die maker

 Management

 Mechanic or repair work

 Printing

 Public safety or security, corrections

 Social work, counseling, religious vocations

 Teaching

 Utility or telecommunications technician

 Other (specify)
9

15. Are you currently working in a job related to your

last work experience program?

 No

 Yes

16. In your current job, how often do you use the

skills or knowledge that you learned during your

last work experience program?

If you are not employed, please answer “Never or 

almost never”.

 Never or almost never

 Sometimes 

 All or most of the time

17. How useful was your last work experience program for each of the following?

a. Getting a job (Mark one.)

 Not useful

 Somewhat useful

 Very useful

 Too soon to tell

b. Increasing your pay (Mark one.)

 Not useful

 Somewhat useful

 Very useful

 Too soon to tell

c. Improving your work skills (Mark one.)

 Not useful

 Somewhat useful

 Very useful

 Too soon to tell
10

18. Since leaving high school, have you taken any of the

following types of classes?

a. Classes to learn English as a second language,

sometimes called ESL classes.

 No

 Yes

b. Literacy classes to help improve my reading. Do

not include college classes.

 No

 Yes

c. Classes to earn a high school equivalency (such

as the GED®).

 No

 Yes

19. How many college classes have you taken in the

past 12 months, including for-credit and non-credit

classes?

 None

 One

 Two

 Three or more

College and Other Classes

GO TO question 27

CONTINUE with question 20. 

20. If one or more, did you take these classes as part of

a degree program, or to transfer to a degree

program?

 No

 Yes, as part of a degree program

 Yes, to transfer to a degree program

21. Among all the college classes you have taken in the

past 12 months, how many were not for college

credit (that is, non-credit)?

 Don’t know

 None

 One

 Two

 Three or more

Go to question 27 if you do not know how many college 

classes you took, or if you did not take any in the last 12 

months.

If you took more than one non-credit class during the 

same time period, please answer the following questions for the class you took earlier in the week or if on 

the same day, earlier in the day.

The rest of this section asks about the last non-credit 

class you took.

22. What was the primary subject or field of study for

your last non-credit class?

GO TO question 27
11

25. Was your last non-credit class required by your

employer?

If you were self-employed or not employed when

you took the class, answer “does not apply.”

 No 

 Yes

 Does not apply

26. Did your employer pay for your last non-credit

class? Include reimbursements from your

employer. (Mark one.)

If you were self-employed or not employed when

you took the class, answer “does not apply.”

 No

 Yes, partly

 Yes, completely

 Does not apply

23. Did you take your last non-credit class for any of

the following reasons? (Mark ONE box in each

row below.)

24. How useful was your last non-credit class for each

of the following?

a. Increasing your pay (Mark one.)

 Not useful

 Somewhat useful

 Very useful

 Too soon to tell

b. Keeping you marketable to employers or

clients (Mark one.)

 Not useful

 Somewhat useful

 Very useful

 Too soon to tell

c. Improving your work skills (Mark one.)

 Not useful

 Somewhat useful

 Very useful

 Too soon to tell

a. To prepare for or to

consider further education

b. For personal interest

c. To earn or renew a

professional certification

or license

d. For my current job

e. For a future job

 No Yes

 ▼ ▼
12

27. People often participate in courses, training, or

other instruction for work.

These trainings can include classes, seminars, workshops, or on-line instruction. They can be taken at the

workplace or somewhere else, and can include topics

such as:

 Job safety, security, sexual harassment,

ethics, or other regulations,

 Equipment use,

 Communication, sensitivity, or team-building,

 Computer or technical skills,

 Management skills, and

 Other job skills.

Have you completed any work-related training in 

the past 12 months? 

 No 

 Yes

28. If yes, how many work-related trainings have you

completed in the past 12 months?

Count multiple sessions of the same training as one

training.

Number of trainings

Training for Work

GO TO question 31

If none, go to question 31. If one or more, 

continue on page 14. 
13

This page left blank intentionally.
14

29. Answer questions 29a – 29f in the following grid for each work-related training you have completed in the past

12 months.

If you had more than three, answer for the last three you had.

Training

#1

Training

#2

Training

#3

29a. What was the topic or title of 

this training?

29b. Using Table A on the next 

page, which category best fits 

this training?

Number from

Table A

Number from

Table A

Number from

Table A

29c. In total, how many hours did 

this training take? Round to 

the nearest hour. Count less 

than 1 hour as 1 hour.

 Hours Hours Hours

29d. Was this training for your 

current job? (Mark one.)

If you are not employed, 

answer “No”.

 No

 Yes, and it was 

required

 Yes, but it was not 

required

 No

 Yes, and it was 

required

 Yes, but it was not 

required

 No

 Yes, and it was 

required

 Yes, but it was not 

required

29e. Did you take this training to 

earn or renew a professional 

certification or license?

 No

 Yes

 No

 Yes

 No

 Yes

29f. How useful was this training 

for improving your work 

skills? (Mark one.)

 Not useful

 Somewhat useful

 Very useful

 Too soon to tell

 Not useful

 Somewhat useful

 Very useful

 Too soon to tell

 Not useful

 Somewhat useful

 Very useful

 Too soon to tell
15

TABLE A. TRAINING CATEGORIES FOR QUESTION 29b

1 Compliance training: Provides information on 

 company, professional, or government policies 

 and regulations concerning legal and ethical 

 issues. 

2 Safety training: Provides information on 

 workplace safety, including safety procedures 

 and processes. 

3 Communication or team training: Includes 

 training to improve communication in the 

 workplace or how to work in teams or groups. 

4 Supervisory/management training: Includes 

 training in supervising employees and in 

 implementing employment practices, 

 regulations, and policies related to personnel or 

 budget management.

5 Job skills training: Includes all other training to 

 develop the professional or technical skills 

 needed to do your work, such as sales and 

 customer relations training, use of computer 

 applications, and other skills that you use on 

 your job. 
16

30. How much do each of the following factors

motivate you to take work-related training?

a. Your employer’s requirements. (Mark one.)

 Not at all

 Somewhat

 A great deal

b. Certification or licensing requirements.

(Mark one.)

 Not at all

 Somewhat

 A great deal

c. Your desire to get a job. (Mark one.)

 Not at all

 Somewhat

 A great deal

d. Your desire to move up in your career. (Mark

one.)

 Not at all

 Somewhat

 A great deal

e. Your desire to increase your pay. (Mark one.)

 Not at all

 Somewhat

 A great deal

CONTINUE on the next page
17

31. Last week, were you employed for pay at a job or

business?

If you were temporarily absent from a job or 

business (on vacation, temporarily ill, on 

maternity leave, etc.), answer “Yes”.

 No 

 Yes 

32. If yes, for the job or business you were in last

week, were you a member of a labor union or of

an employee association similar to a union (for

example, AFL-CIO, Change to Win Federation,

NEA)?

 No 

 Yes 

33. Last week, how many jobs did you have?

Number of jobs 

34. Last week, did you work at a full-time job (a job

where you work 35 hours or more per week)?

 No 

 Yes 

35. Last week, did you work at a part-time job (a job

where you work fewer than 35 hours per week)?

 No 

 Yes 

36. If yes, would you have preferred to work at a fulltime job?

 No 

 Yes

37. Last week, were you on layoff from a job?

 No 

 Yes 

38. During the last 4 weeks, have you been actively

looking for work?

 No 

 Yes 

39. If no, do you intend to look for work within the

next 5 years?

 No 

 Yes 

 Don’t know

40. When did you last work, even for a few days?

(Mark one.)

 Never worked 

for pay

 Over 12 months 

ago 

 Within the past 

12 months 

41. During the past 12 months (52 weeks), how many

weeks did you work, including paid vacation, paid

sick leave, and military service? (Mark one.)

 50 to 52 weeks

 48 to 49 weeks

 40 to 47 weeks

 27 to 39 weeks

 14 to 26 weeks

 13 weeks or less

42. During the past 12 months, in the weeks you

worked, how many hours did you usually work

each WEEK?

Usual hours worked each WEEK 

 Employment

GO TO question 41

GO TO question 

55

GO TO question 

43

GO TO question 37 

GO TO question 40

GO TO question 41
18

43. In your current or last job, which one of the

following were you? (Mark one.)

If you had more than one job, describe the one at 

which you worked the most hours. If you had no job 

or business last week, give information for your last 

job or business.

 An employee of a private (for-profit or not-forprofit) company or business, or of an individual, 

for wages, salary, or commission

 A local (city, county, etc.), state, or federal 

government employee 

 Self-employed in own business, professional 

practice, or farm

 Working without pay in family business or farm

44. For whom did you work?

 If now on active duty in the Armed Forces, mark 

(X) this box and print the branch of the Armed 

Forces below. All others, enter name of 

company, business, or other employer below.

Name of company, business, or other employer:

45. What kind of business or industry was this?

(For example: hospital, newspaper publishing, 

mail order house, auto engine manufacturing, 

bank)

46. What kind of work were you doing?

(For example: registered nurse, personnel manager, 

supervisor of order department, secretary, 

accountant)

47. What were your most important activities or

duties?

(For example: patient care, directing hiring policies, 

supervising order clerks, typing and filing, 

reconciling financial records)

48. Did you have a license that was required by a

federal, state, or local government agency to do

this job?

 No 

 Yes 

49. Which category best fits your earnings from

wages, salary, commissions, bonuses or tips, from

your current or last job over the past 12 months?

(Mark one.)

Report amount before deductions for taxes, 

bonds, dues, or other items.

 $0 to $10,000

 $10,001 to $20,000

 $20,001 to $30,000

 $30,001 to $40,000

 $40,001 to $50,000 

 $50,001 to $60,000 

 $60,001 to $75,000

 $75,001 to $150,000

 $150,001 or more
19

50. What kind of position did you hold? (Mark one.)

 Permanent 

 Temporary 

51. Would you have preferred to work at a

permanent job?

 No 

 Yes 

52. How many people worked for your employer?

Count employees at all locations. (Mark one.)

If you were self-employed, how many people 

worked for you, including yourself? 

 1—49 people

 50—499 people

 500—999 people

 1,000 or more people

53. How supportive was your employer of your

training needs? (Mark one.)

 Not at all supportive

 Somewhat supportive

 Very supportive

 Not applicable

54. When you started your current or last job, did it

have a clear training path laid out, or did you need

to figure out on your own what training you needed? (Mark one.)

 A clear training path was laid out

 Some parts of the training path were 

clear

 I needed to figure it out on my own

 There was no training path

55. Have you ever served on active duty in the U.S.

Armed Forces, Reserves, or National Guard?

(Mark one.)

 No, never served 

in the military

 Yes, but only on active duty 

for training in the Reserve or 

National Guard

 Yes, on active duty now or in past

56. Have you served on active duty since September

2001?

 No

 Yes

57. Are you male or female?

 Male

 Female

58. What is your current marital status? (Mark one.)

 Now Married

 Widowed

 Divorced

 Separated

 Never married

59. Are you currently living with a boyfriend/girlfriend

or partner?

 No

 Yes

60. Are you currently in a registered domestic

partnership or civil union?

 No

 Yes

GO TO question 

52

Background

GO TO 

question 57

GO TO question 61
20

61. Do you speak a language other than English at

home?

 No

 Yes

62. How well do you speak English? (Mark one.)

 Very well

 Well

 Not well

 Not at all

63. How old are you?

years old

64. Are you of Hispanic or Latino origin?

 No

 Yes

65. What is your race? Choose one or more.

 White

 Black or African American

 Asian

 American Indian or Alaska Native

 Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander

GO TO question 63

Thank You.

Please return this questionnaire in the 

postage-paid envelope provided. If you have 

lost the envelope, mail the completed 

questionnaire to:

National Household Education Survey

[RETURN ADDRESS HERE]
21

Commonly Asked Questions

Q: How was my household chosen?

A: Your address was randomly selected from among all of the home addresses in the nation. It was selected 

using scientific sampling methods to represent other U.S. households. The sample was designed so that surveys of only a few thousand people will accurately describe the educational experiences of almost all Americans. 

Q: Why should I participate? Do I have to do this?

A: Your answers are very important to the success of this study. You represent thousands of other adults like 

yourself, and you cannot be replaced. This survey is voluntary. You may choose not to answer any or all 

questions in this survey, but in order for the survey to be representative, it is important that you complete and 

return it. Those who do not return the survey will not be represented in statistics used by policymakers and 

researchers. There are no penalties should you choose not to participate in the study. 

Q: Will the information I provide be kept confidential? Will my privacy be protected?

A: Yes. Your responses will be combined with those from other adults to produce statistical summaries about 

education and training in the United States. Your individual data will not be reported. Your answers may be 

used only for statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form for any other purpose except as required by law (20 USC § 9573). 

Q: How will my response help the Federal Government?

A: The U.S. Departments of Education and Labor want to understand how adults acquire and maintain the skills 

they need for work. This survey is the only way these Departments can learn about the education and training that adults receive from schools, employers, and other training sponsors. The survey will allow policymakers and researchers to better understand the demand for education and training programs, and can help 

direct national policy in these areas. Your responses will be combined with those from other households to 

inform educators, policy makers, and schools about how adults in the U.S. learn the skills needed for work. 

Q: Who is sponsoring this study?

A: The National Center for Education Statistics, within the U.S. Department of Education, is authorized 

to conduct this study (20 USC § 9543). The U.S. Census Bureau is conducting this study on behalf of the 

U.S. Department of Education. This study has been approved by the Office of Management and Budget,

the office that reviews all federally sponsored surveys.

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of 

information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this voluntary 

survey is 1850-0803. The average time required to complete this survey is estimated to average 10 

minutes per response, including the time to review instructions, gather the data needed, and complete and 

review the survey. If you have any comments concerning the accuracy of the time estimate, suggestions 

for improving the survey, or any comments or concerns regarding the status of your individual submission 

of this survey, please write to: Lisa Hudson, National Center for Education Statistics, National Household 

Education Surveys (NHES), 1990 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20006-5650. You may send email to 

NHES@census.gov.

Q: What if I have other questions?

A: If you have any questions about the study, you may send e-mail to NHES@census.gov or you may call 

the Census Bureau toll-free at 1-888-840-8353
C.3 Early Childhood Program Participation (ECPP) Survey
OMB No. 1850-0768: Approval Expires 11/30/2014

NHES-21AC 

(02/14/2011)

The National Household Education Survey

Our Children’s Future: A Survey of Young Children’s Care and Education

Thank you for helping us with this

survey. Based on the information

we received from your household

in your last survey, we’re asking

you to complete this final step.

24252017

§9:52¤

Conducted by

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE 

Economics and Statistics Administration 

U.S. Census Bureau 
NHES-21AC

2

We are authorized to collect this information by Section 9543, 20 U.S. Code. You do not have to

provide the information requested. However, the information you provide will help the Department

of Education’s ongoing efforts to learn more about the educational experiences of children and

families. There are no penalties should you choose not to participate in this study. Your answers

may be used only for statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form

for any other purpose except as required by law (Section 9573, 20 U.S. Code). Your responses will

be combined with those from other participants to produce summary statistics and reports.

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of 

information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this voluntary 

survey is 1850-0803. The time required to complete this survey is estimated to average 20 minutes per response, 

including the time to review instructions, gather the data needed, and complete and review the survey. If you have 

any comments concerning the accuracy of the time estimate, suggestions for improving this survey, or any 

comments or concerns regarding the status of your individual submission of this survey, please write to: Andrew 

Zukerberg, National Center for Education Statistics, National Household Education Surveys (NHES), 1990 K Street, 

NW, Washington, DC 20006. You may send email to NHES@census.gov.

Instructions

◆ In response to the survey you answered earlier, we recorded that the

child/youth listed below has not yet started kindergarten. If this child is 

attending public or private school or is homeschooled for kindergarten 

through 12th grade or equivalent, please call us at the toll-free number 

below so we can be sure you received the correct survey.

◆ These questions should be filled in by a parent or guardian who knows

about:

Please answer all the survey questions thinking about this child or youth.

◆ To answer a question, simply mark the box that best represents your

answer.

◆ Please use a black or blue pen, if available, to complete this survey.

◆ If this questionnaire has been sent to the wrong household or the

child/youth listed above does not live here, please call to let us know.

◆ Our toll-free number is 1-888-840-8353.

X

24252025

§9:5:¤
●

Thank you for your help with the

previous survey your household

completed.

NHES-21AC

3

2. Are any of these care arrangements

regularly scheduled at least once a

week?

age

Answer all the survey questions

thinking about the child listed

below:

3. These next questions are about the care

that this child receives from the relative

who provides the most care. How is that

relative related to this child?

Mark ONE only.

Grandmother/Grandfather

Aunt/Uncle

Brother/Sister

Another relative

4. How old is the relative who provides the

most care to this child?

5. Is this care provided in your home or

another home?

Own home

Other home

Both

8. How old was this child in years and

months when this particular regular care

arrangement with this relative began?

Yes

No GO TO question 17

9. What language does this relative speak

most when caring for this child?

Care Your Child Receives from

Relatives

These questions ask about different

types of child care this child may now receive

on a regular basis from someone other than

his/her parents or guardians.

i

1. Is this child now receiving care from a

relative other than a parent or guardian

on a regular basis, for example, from

grandparents, brothers or sisters, or any

other relatives?

GO TO question 17

X

days each week

6. How many days each week does this

child receive care from this relative?

hours each week

7. How many hours each week does this

child receive care from this relative?

years months

English and another language equally

English

Spanish

A language other than English or Spanish

English and Spanish equally

Yes

No

▼▼

▼

1. Childhood Care and

Programs

24252033

§9:5B¤
NHES-21AC

4

hours each week

No

Yes

GO TO question 15

10. Will this relative care for this child when

the child is...

Is that amount per...

13. How much does your household pay for

this relative to care for this child, not

counting any money that may be received

from others to help pay for care?

Write ’0’ if your household does not pay this

relative for care.

11. Is there any charge or fee for the care

this child receives from this relative,

paid either by you or some other person

or agency?

a. Sick but does not have

a fever? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

b. Sick and has a fever?. . . . . . . .

12. Do any of the following people, programs,

or organizations help pay for this relative

to care for this child?

Mark ONE box for each item below.

a. A relative of this child

outside your household

who provides money

specifically for that care,

not including general

child support

b. Temporary Assistance for

Needy Families, or TANF. . . . .

c. Another social service,

welfare, or child care agency . .

X

d. An employer, not including

a tax-free spending account

for child care . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

e. Someone else . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ .00

Hour

Day

Week

Month

Year

Other — Specify:

Every 2 weeks

14. How many children from your household

is this amount for, including this child?

This child only

2 children

3 children

4 children

5 or more children

No

Yes

GO TO question 17

15. Does this child have any other care

arrangements with a relative on a regular

basis?

16. How many total hours each week does

this child spend in those other care

arrangements with relatives?

No Yes

▼ ▼

No Yes

▼ ▼

24252041

§9:5J¤
●

NHES-21AC

5

18. Are any of these care arrangements

regularly scheduled at least once a

week?

19. These next questions are about the care

that this child receives from someone

who is not related to him/her who

provides the most care.

Is this care provided in your own home

or in another home?

Own home

Other home

Both

23. How old was this child in years and

months when this particular regular care

arrangement with this person began?

No

Yes

GO TO question 35

26. What language does this care provider

speak most when caring for this child?

Care Your Child Receives from

Non-relatives

The next questions ask about any care

this child receives from someone not related

to him/her, either in your home or someone

else’s home. This includes home child care

providers or neighbors, but not day care

centers or preschools.

i

17. Is this child now receiving care in your

home or another home on a regular

basis from someone who is not related

to him/her?

No

Yes

GO TO question 35

days each week

21. How many days each week does this

child receive care from this person?

hours each week

22. How many hours each week does this

child receive care from this person?

years months

English and another language equally

English

Spanish

A language other than English or Spanish

English and Spanish equally

20. Does this person who cares for this child

live in your household?

27. Will this care provider care for this child

when this child is...

a. Sick but does not have

a fever? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

b. Sick and has a fever?. . . . . . . .

24. Was this care provider someone you

already knew?

No

Yes

25. Is this child’s care provider age 18 or

older?

No

Yes

No

Yes

No Yes

▼ ▼

▼

24252058

§9:5[¤
NHES-21AC

6

hours each week

No

Yes

GO TO question 33

28. Would you recommend this care provider

to another parent?

Is that amount per...

31. How much does your household pay for

this person to care for this child, not

counting any money that may be received

from others to help pay for care?

Write ’0’ if your household does not pay

this non-relative for care.

29. Is there any charge or fee for the care this

child receives from this care provider,

paid either by you or some other person

or agency?

30. Do any of the following people, programs,

or organizations help pay for this person

to care for this child?

Mark ONE box for each item below.

a. A relative of this child

outside your household

who provides money

specifically for that care,

not including general

child support

b. Temporary Assistance for

Needy Families, or TANF. . . . .

c. Another social service,

welfare, or child care agency . .

d. An employer, not including

a tax-free spending account

for child care . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

e. Someone else . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ .00

Hour

Day

Week

Month

Year

Other — Specify:

Every 2 weeks

32. How many children from your household

is this amount for, including this child?

This child only

2 children

3 children

4 children

5 or more children

No

Yes

GO TO question 35

33. Does this child have any other homebased care arrangements on a regular

basis with someone who is not a relative?

Do not include arrangements at day care

centers or preschools.

34. How many total hours each week does

this child spend in those other care

arrangements with non-relatives?

No

Yes

X

No Yes

▼ ▼

24252066

§9:5c¤
●

NHES-21AC

7

36. Does this child go to a day care center,

preschool, or prekindergarten, at least

once each week?

37. The next questions ask about the

program where this child spends the

most time.

Is this child’s current program a day care

program, a preschool program, or a

prekindergarten program?

Day care

Preschool

Prekindergarten

No

Yes

GO TO question 54

Day Care Centers and Preschool 

Programs Your Child Attends

The next questions ask about any day

care centers and early childhood programs

that this child attends. This does not include

care provided in a private home.

i

35. Is this child now attending a day care

center, preschool, or prekindergarten

not in a private home?

No

Yes

GO TO question 54

days each week

42. How many days each week does this

child go to this program?

39. Where is this program located?

Mark ONE only.

38. Is this program a Head Start or Early

Head Start program?

No

Yes

40. Is this program run by a church,

synagogue, or other religious group?

No

Yes

41. Is this program located at your workplace

or this child’s other parent’s workplace?

No

Yes

Don’t know

● Head Start and Early Head Start are

federally sponsored preschool programs

primarily for children from low-income

families.

i

44. How old was this child in years and

months when he/she started going to

this particular program?

hours each week

43. How many hours each week does this

child go to this program?

years months

In a church, synagogue, or other place

of worship

In a public elementary or secondary

school

In a private elementary or secondary

school

At a college or university

At a community center

At a public library

In its own building, office space, or

storefront

Some other place – Specify:

X

▼

24252074

§9:5k¤
NHES-21AC

8

No

Yes

45. What language does this child’s main

care provider or teacher at this program

speak most when caring for this child?

46. Would you recommend this program to

another parent?

47. Does this program provide any of the

following services to this child or your

family?

Mark ONE box for each item below.

a. Hearing, speech, or

vision testing

b. Physical examinations . . . . . . .

c. Dental examinations. . . . . . . . .

d. Formal testing for

developmental or

learning problems . . . . . . . . . .

e. Sick child care when

this child is sick but

does not have a fever . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Is that amount per...

50. How much does your household pay for

this child to go to this program, not

counting any money that you may receive

from others to help pay for care?

Write ‘0’ if your household does not pay for

this program.

$ .00

Hour

Day

Week

Month

Year

Other — Specify:

Every 2 weeks

49. Do any of the following people, programs,

or organizations help pay for this child to

go to this program?

Mark ONE box for each item below.

a. A relative of this child

outside your household

who provides money

specifically for that care,

not including general

child support

b. Temporary Assistance for

Needy Families, or TANF. . . . .

c. Another social service,

welfare, or child care agency . .

d. An employer, not including

a tax-free spending account

for child care . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

e. Someone else . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

No

Yes

GO TO question 52

48. Is there any charge or fee for this

program, paid either by you or some

other person or agency?

f. Sick child care when

this child is sick and

has a fever. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

English and another language equally

English

Spanish

A language other than English or Spanish

English and Spanish equally

X

No Yes

▼ ▼

X

No Yes

▼ ▼

24252082

§9:5s¤
NHES-21AC

9

hours each week

51. How many children from your household

is this amount for, including this child?

This child only

2 children

3 children

4 children

5 or more children

No

Yes

GO TO question 54

52. Does this child have any other care

arrangements at a day care center or

preschool on a regular basis?

53. How many total hours each week does

this child spend at those day care centers

or preschools?

54. Has this child ever attended a Head Start

or Early Head Start program?

No

Yes

Don’t know

● Head Start and Early Head Start are

federally sponsored preschool programs

primarily for children from low-income

families.

i

55. What is the main reason your household

wanted a care program for this child in

the past year?

Mark ONE only. X

To provide care when a parent was at

work or school

To prepare child for school

To provide cultural or language learning

To make time for running errands or

relaxing

Some other reason

Did not have care in the past year

▼

Continue with section 2.

2. Finding and Choosing

Care for Your Child

24252090

§9:5{¤
NHES-21AC

10

56. Do you feel there are good choices for

child care or early childhood programs

where you live?

Have not tried

to find care GO TO question 59

57. How much difficulty did you have finding

the type of child care or early childhood

program you wanted for this child?

No

Yes

Don’t know

Did not find the child care program

you wanted

A lot of difficulty

Some difficulty

A little difficulty

No difficulty

58. How important was each of these

reasons when you chose the child care

arrangement or program where this child

spends the most time?

c. The reliability of the arrangement?

d. The learning activities at the

arrangement?

e. The child spending time with other

kids his/her age?

a. The location of the arrangement?

Not at all important

A little important

Somewhat important

Very important

b. The cost of the arrangement?

Not at all important

A little important

Somewhat important

Very important

Not at all important

A little important

Somewhat important

Very important

Not at all important

A little important

Somewhat important

Very important

f. The times during the day that this

caregiver is able to provide care?

Not at all important

A little important

Somewhat important

Very important

Not at all important

A little important

Somewhat important

Very important

g. The number of other children in the

child’s care group?

Not at all important

A little important

Somewhat important

Very important

24252108

§9:6)¤

h. Your city or state's Quality Rating and

Improvement System (QRIS).

A QRIS is a voluntary "star" rating system

that informs families about the quality of

early learning programs (including child

care and preschools) in their communities.

Some areas do not have a QRIS.

Did not use a QRIS

Not at all important

A little important

Somewhat important

Very important
●

NHES-21AC

11

times

Not at all GO TO question 62

The next questions ask about this child’s

activities with family members in the past

week or month.

i

days

Yes

No

Continue with section 4 on the 

next page.

number of books

59. About how many books does this child

have of his/her own, including those

shared with brothers or sisters?

62. In the past week, how many times has

anyone in your family done the following

things with this child?

c. Sang songs with this child?

d. Worked on arts and crafts with this

child?

a. Told this child a story? (Do not include

reading to this child.)

Not at all

1 or 2 times

3 or more times

b. Taught this child letters, words, or

numbers?

60. How many times have you or someone in

your family read to this child in the past

week?

61. About how many minutes on each of

those times did you or someone in your

family read to this child?

minutes

Not at all

1 or 2 times

3 or more times

Not at all

1 or 2 times

3 or more times

Not at all

1 or 2 times

3 or more times

63. In the past month, have you or someone

in your family visited a library with this

child?

Yes

No

64. In the past month, have you or someone

in your family visited a bookstore with

this child?

65. In the past week, how many days has

your family eaten the evening meal

together?

Write ‘0’ if none.

▼

3. Family Activities

24252116

§9:61¤
●

NHES-21AC

12

2 years or older

Under 2 years GO TO question 74

These next questions ask about things

that different children do at different ages.

These things may or may not be true for this

child.

i

66. Is this child under 2 years old or is

he/she 2 years old or older?

Yes, some of them

No

Continue with section 5, question 74 

on the next page.

67. Can this child identify the colors red,

yellow, blue, and green by name?

Yes, all of them

Yes, some of them

No

68. Can this child recognize the letters of

the alphabet?

Yes, most of them

Yes, all of them

Up to 5

This child cannot count

69. How high can this child count?

Up to 10

Up to 20

Up to 50

Up to 100 or more

Yes

No

Actually reads the

written words

Pretends to read

Does both

Tells what’s in each picture

Sounds like connected story

73. When this child pretends to read a book,

does it sound like a connected story, or

does he/she tell what is in each picture

without much connection between

them?

Does both

Does neither

70. Can this child write his/her first name,

even if some of the letters are

backwards?

Yes

No

72. Does this child actually read the words

written in the book, or does he/she look

at the book and pretend to read?

GO TO question 74

▼

4. Things Your Child May

be Learning

71. Does this child ever read or pretend to

read storybooks on his/her own?

GO TO question 74

{

24252124

§9:69¤
NHES-21AC

13

74. In general, how would you describe this

child’s health?

Excellent

76. (If child is under 3 years old) Has a health,

education, or early intervention

professional told you this child is “at-risk”

for a substantial developmental delay?

79. Are these services provided by any of

the following sources?

Mark ONE box for each item below.

a. Your local school district . . . . .

b. A state or local health or

social service agency

. . . . . . . . .

c. A doctor, clinic, or other

health care provider

. . . . . . . .

75. Has a health, education, or early

intervention professional told you

that this child has any of the following

conditions?

Mark ONE box for each item below.

a. A specific learning disability. . .

b. An intellectual disability

(mental retardation)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

c. A speech or language

impairment

. . . . . . . . .

d. A serious emotional

disturbance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

e. Deafness or another hearing

impairment

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

f. Blindness or another visual

impairment not corrected

with glasses

g. An orthopedic impairment. . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Very good

Good

Fair

Poor

h. Autism. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

i. Pervasive Developmental

Disorder (PDD)

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

j. Attention Deficit Disorder,

ADD or ADHD

k. A developmental delay. . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

l. Traumatic brain injury . . . . . . .

m. Another health impairment

lasting 6 months or more. . . . .

No

Yes

78. Is this child receiving services for his/her

condition?

No

Yes

GO TO question 83

77. Did you mark yes to any condition in

question 75 or question 76?

No

Yes

GO TO question 85

Child is age 3 or older

X

No Yes

▼ ▼

No Yes

▼ ▼

X

5. This Child’s Health

24252132

§9:6A¤
NHES-21AC

14

80. Are any of these services provided

through an Individualized Family

Service Plan (IFSP) or an Individualized

Education Program (IEP)?

No

Yes

GO TO question 83

83. Is this child currently enrolled in any

special education classes or services?

No

Yes

81. Did any adult in your household work

with the service provider or school to

develop or change this child’s IFSP or

IEP?

No

Yes

82. Since September, how satisfied or

dissatisfied have you been with the

following aspects of this child’s IFSP

or IEP?

a. The service provider’s or school’s

communication with your family?

b. The child’s special needs teacher or

therapist?

c. The service provider’s or school’s

ability to accommodate this child’s

special needs?

Very satisfied

Somewhat satisfied

Somewhat dissatisfied

Very dissatisfied

Very satisfied

Somewhat satisfied

Somewhat dissatisfied

Very dissatisfied

Does not apply

Does not apply

Very satisfied

Somewhat satisfied

Somewhat dissatisfied

Very dissatisfied

Does not apply

Very satisfied

Somewhat satisfied

Somewhat dissatisfied

Very dissatisfied

Does not apply

84. Does this child’s condition interfere with

his/her ability to do any of the following

things?

Mark

a. Learn

b. Participate in play with

other children

c. Go on outings

X ONE box for each item below.

d. Make friends . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

No Yes

▼ ▼

Continue with section 6, question 85, 

on the next page.

▼

d. The service provider’s or school’s

commitment to help this child learn?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

24252140

§9:6I¤
NHES-21AC

15

90. Since September, has this child usually

lived at this address or another address

(for example, because of a joint custody

arrangement)?

Do not include vacation properties.

6. Child’s Background

Continue with section 7 on the

next page.

▼

age

English and another language equally

85. In what month and year was this child

born?

One of the 50 United States or the

District of Columbia

One of the U.S. territories

(Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa,

U.S. Virgin Islands, or Mariana Islands)

Another country

86. Where was this child born?

89. What is this child’s race? You may mark

one or more races.

88. Is this child of Spanish, Hispanic, or

Latino origin?

American Indian or Alaska Native

Asian

Black or African American

No

Yes

Child usually lived at this address

Child usually lived at another address

91. What language does this child speak

most at home?

Mark ONE only.

Child has not

started to speak

English

Spanish

A language other than English or Spanish

English and Spanish equally

month year

/

GO TO question 88

87. How old was this child when he/she first

moved to the 50 United States or the

District of Columbia?

Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander

White

92.

Is this child currently enrolled in

English as a second language, bilingual

education, or an English immersion

program?

No

Yes

GO TO section 7

X

89b. What is this child’s sex?

Male

Female

24252157

§9:6Z¤

Child lived at at this address and another 

address for an equal amount of time 

{
NHES-21AC

16

PARENT 1 LIVING IN HOUSEHOLD 

Answer questions 93 to 109 about yourself if you are

the child’s parent or guardian. 

If you are not the child’s parent or guardian, answer

questions 93 to 109 about one of this child’s parents

or guardians living in the household.

English GO TO question 100

Spanish

A language other than English or Spanish

English and Spanish equally

English and another language equally Biological parent

Adoptive parent

Stepparent

Foster parent

Grandparent

93. Is this parent or guardian the child’s...

Other guardian

Male

Female

94. Is this person male or female?

98. What was the first language this parent

or guardian learned to speak?

Mark ONE only.

English

Spanish

A language other than English or Spanish

English and Spanish equally

English and another language equally

99. What language does this person speak

most at home now?

Mark ONE only.

7. Child’s Family

X

X

No

Yes

One of the 50 United States or the

District of Columbia

One of the U.S. territories

(Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa,

U.S. Virgin Islands, or Mariana Islands)

Another country

age

102. Is this person of Spanish, Hispanic, or

Latino origin?

GO TO question 102

101. How old was this person when he or she

first moved to the 50 United States or

the District of Columbia?

100. Where was this parent or guardian born?

24252165

§9:6b¤

95. What is this person’s current marital

status?

ONE only.

Now married

Widowed

Divorced

Separated

Never married

Mark X

96. Is this person currently living with a

boyfriend/girlfriend or partner in this

household?

Yes

97. Is this person currently in a registered

domestic partnership or civil union?

No

Yes

GO TO question 98

No
NHES-21AC

17

Some graduate or professional

education, but no degree

104. What is the highest grade or level of

school that this parent or guardian

completed?

Mark ONE only.

American Indian or Alaska Native

Asian

Black or African American

8th grade or less

High school, but no diploma

High school diploma or equivalent (GED)

Vocational diploma after high school

Some college, but no degree

Associate’s degree (AA, AS)

Bachelor’s degree (BA, BS)

Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander

White

105. Is he or she currently attending or

enrolled in a school, college, university,

or adult learning center, or receiving

vocational education or job training?

No

Yes

103. What is this person’s race? You may

mark one or more races.

Professional degree beyond

bachelor’s degree (MD, DDS, JD, LLB)

Master’s degree (MA, MS)

Doctorate degree (PhD, EdD)

GO TO question 108

GO TO question 109

X

108. (If unemployed or out of work) Has this

parent or guardian been actively looking

for work in the past 4 weeks?

No

Yes

109. In the past 12 months, how many

months (if any) has this person worked

for pay or income?

106. Which of the following best describes this

person’s employment status?

Mark ONE only.

months

110. How old is this person?

age

111. How old was this person when he or she

first became a parent to any child?

Retired

Employed for pay or income

Self-employed

Unemployed or

out of work

Full-time student

Stay at home

parent

Disabled or

unable to work

X

{

107. (If employed or self-employed) About how

many hours per week does he or she

usually work for pay or income, counting

all jobs?

hours

Don’t know

age

GO TO question 109

24252173

§9:6j¤
NHES-21AC

18

No

Yes

GO TO question 132

112. Is there a second parent or guardian

living in this household?

PARENT 2 LIVING IN HOUSEHOLD 

Answer questions 110 to 127 about a second parent

or guardian living in the household.

Biological parent

Adoptive parent

Stepparent

Foster parent

Grandparent

113. Is this person the child’s...

Male

Female

Other guardian

114. Is this person male or female?

English GO TO question 120

Spanish

A language other than English or Spanish

English and Spanish equally

English and another language equally

118. What was the first language this parent

or guardian learned to speak?

Mark ONE only.

English

Spanish

A language other than English or Spanish

English and Spanish equally

119. What language does this person speak

most at home now?

Mark ONE only.

X

X

age

122. Is this person of Spanish, Hispanic, or

Latino origin?

No

Yes

121. How old was this person when he or she

first moved to the 50 United States or

the District of Columbia?

English and another language equally

120. Where was this parent or guardian born?

One of the 50 United States or the

District of Columbia

One of the U.S. territories

(Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa,

U.S. Virgin Islands, or Mariana Islands)

Another country

GO TO question 122

24252181

§9:6r¤

115. What is this person’s current marital

status?

ONE only.

Now married

Widowed

Divorced

Separated

Never married

Mark X

116. 

Is this person currently living with a

boyfriend/girlfriend or partner in this

household?

No

Yes

117. Is this person currently in a registered

domestic partnership or civil union?

No

Yes

GO TO question 118
NHES-21AC

19

Some graduate or professional

education, but no degree

124. What is the highest grade or level of

school that this parent or guardian

completed?

Mark ONE only.

American Indian or Alaska Native

Asian

Black or African American

8th grade or less

High school, but no diploma

High school diploma or equivalent (GED)

Vocational diploma after high school

Some college, but no degree

Associate’s degree (AA, AS)

Bachelor’s degree (BA, BS)

Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander

White

125. Is he or she currently attending or

enrolled in a school, college, university,

or adult learning center, or receiving

vocational education or job training?

No

Yes

123. What is this person’s race? You may

mark one or more races.

Professional degree beyond

bachelor’s degree (MD, DDS, JD, LLB)

Master’s degree (MA, MS)

Doctorate degree (PhD, EdD)

GO TO question 128

GO TO question 129

X

128. (If unemployed or out of work) Has this

parent or guardian been actively looking

for work in the past 4 weeks?

No

Yes

129. In the past 12 months, how many

months (if any) has this person worked

for pay or income?

126. Which of the following best describes this

person’s employment status?

Mark ONE only.

months

130. How old is this person?

age

131. How old was this person when he or she

first became a parent to any child?

Retired

Employed for pay or income

Self-employed

Unemployed or

out of work

Full-time student

Stay at home

parent

Disabled or

unable to work

X

{

127. (If employed or self-employed) About how

many hours per week does he or she

usually work for pay or income, counting

all jobs?

hours

Don’t know

age

GO TO question 129

24252199

§9:6ƒ¤
NHES-21AC

20

132. Including yourself, how many total

people live in this household?

people

134. How are you related to this child?

Mark ONE only.

133. Other than the parents or guardians

already reported, how many of the

following people live in the household

with this child?

Example: Brother(s) 2

This child’s...

Brother(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sister(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Aunt(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Uncle(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Grandmother(s) . . . . . . . .

Grandfather(s). . . . . . . . . .

Cousin(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Parent’s girlfriend/

boyfriend/partner . . . . . . .

Other relative(s) . . . . . . . .

Other non-relative(s). . . . .

Write ’0’ if none. 

Number

135. Which language(s) are spoken at home

by the adults in this household?

Mark all that apply.

English

Spanish or Spanish Creole

French (including Patois, Creole, Cajun)

Chinese

Other languages – Specify:

Mother (birth, adoptive, step, or foster)

Father (birth, adoptive, step, or foster)

Aunt

Uncle

Grandmother

Grandfather

Parent’s girlfriend/boyfriend/partner

Other relationship – Specify:

8. Your Household

Continue with question 136 on the

next page.

▼

X

X

24252207

§9:7(¤
NHES-21AC

21

136. In the past 12 months, did your family

ever receive benefits from any of the

following programs?

Mark ONE box for each item below.

a. Temporary Assistance for

Needy Families, or TANF . . . . .

b. Your state welfare or

family assistance program. . . .

c. Women, Infants, and

Children, or WIC . . . . . . . . . . . .

years at this address

139. Is this house...

Mark ONE only.

Owned or being bought by someone

in this household,

Rented by someone in this household, or

Occupied by some other arrangement?

$0 to $10,000

$10,001 to $20,000

$20,001 to $30,000

$30,001 to $40,000

$40,001 to $50,000

137. Which category best fits the total

income of all persons in your household

over the past 12 months?

Include your own income.

Include money from jobs or other earnings,

pensions, interest, rent, Social Security

payments, and so on.

No

Yes

140. Do you have access to the Internet at

this address?

No

Yes

141. Is there at least one telephone inside this

home that is currently working and not a

cell phone?

No

Yes

142. Do you have a working cell phone?

138. How many years have you lived at this

address?

Write ’0’ if less than 1 year.

d. Food Stamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

e. Medicaid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

f. Child Health Insurance

Program (CHIP). . . . . . . . . . . . .

g. Section 8 housing assistance . .

$50,001 to $60,000

$60,001 to $75,000

$75,001 to $100,000

$100,001 to $150,000

$150,001 or more

No Yes

▼ ▼

X

X

24252215

§9:70¤
NHES-21AC

22

Thank you. 

Please return this questionnaire in the postage-paid envelope provided.

If you have lost the envelope, mail the completed questionnaire to: 

U.S. Census Bureau

ATTN: DCB 60-A (7198)

1201 E. 10th Street

Jeffersonville, IN 47132-0001

24252223

§9:78¤
NHES-21AC

23

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

24252231

§9:7@¤
NHES-21AC

24

Commonly Asked Questions

Q: How did you get my address?

A: Your address was randomly selected from among all of the home addresses in the nation.

It was selected using scientific sampling methods to represent other households in the

United States.

Q: How did you get my child’s name and age?

A: When you returned the initial National Household Education Survey to us, we randomly

chose one child to ask additional questions about. We are interested in understanding

your child’s experiences with care and early education.

Q: Why should I take part in this study? Do I have to do this?

A: You represent thousands of other households like yours, and you cannot be replaced.

Your answers and opinions are very important to the success of this study. You may

choose not to answer any or all questions in this survey. In order for the survey to be

representative, it is important that you complete and return this questionnaire. Those who

do not return the survey will not be represented in key statistics used by policymakers and

researchers.

Q: How will the information I provide be used? Will my privacy be protected?

A: Your responses will be combined with those of others to produce statistical summaries

and reports. Your individual data will not be reported. Your answers may be used only for

statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form for any other

purpose except as required by law (Section 9573, 20 U.S. Code).

Q: I have more than one child in my household. Will I receive additional surveys for

the other children in my household?

A: No, each household will receive a survey for only one child, even if there are multiple

children living in the household. In households with multiple children, one child was

randomly selected to be included in the study.

Q: How will my response help the Department of Education?

A: The Department of Education wants to understand the care and early education of

children. This survey is the only way that the Department of Education can learn about

the types of care and early learning activities children receive. Your responses will be

combined with those from other households to inform educators, policymakers, schools,

and universities about changes in the condition of education in the United States. Reports

from past surveys can be found at www.nces.ed.gov/nhes.

24252249

§9:7R¤

Q: Who is sponsoring this study?

A: The National Center for Education Statistics, within the U.S. Department of Education, is authorized 

to conduct this study (20 USC § 9543). The U.S. Census Bureau is conducting this study on 

behalf of the U.S. Department of Education. This study has been approved by the Office of 

Management and Budget, the office that reviews all federally sponsored surveys. 

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a 

collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control 

number for this voluntary survey is 1850-0803. The average time required to complete this 

survey is estimated to average 20 minutes per response, including the time to review 

instructions, gather the data needed, and complete and review the survey. If you have any 

comments concerning the accuracy of the time estimate, suggestions for improving the survey, 

or any comments or concerns regarding the status of your individual submission of this survey, 

please write to: Andrew Zukerberg, National Center for Education Statistics, National Household 

Education Surveys (NHES), 1990 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20006-5650. You may send 

email to NHES@census.gov.

Q: What if I have other questions?

A: If you have any questions about the study, you may send e-mail to NHES@census.gov or you may call 

the Census Bureau toll-free at 1-888-840-8353
C.4 Parent and Family Involvement in Education Survey for Enrolled Students
NHES-42BC 

(02/09/2012)

A Survey about Students’ and Families’ Experience with Their Schools

Conducted by

OMB No. 1850-0768: Approval Expires 11/30/2014

The National Household Education Survey

24542011

§9W5,¤

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE 

Economics and Statistics Administration 

U.S. Census Bureau 

Thank you for helping us with this

survey. Based on the information

we received from your household

in your last survey, we’re asking

you to complete this final step.
NHES-42BC

2

We are authorized to collect this information by Section 9543, 20 U.S. Code. You do not have to

provide the information requested. However, the information you provide will help the Department

of Education’s ongoing efforts to learn more about the educational experiences of children and

families. There are no penalties should you choose not to participate in this study. Your answers

may be used only for statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form

for any other purpose except as required by law (Section 9573, 20 U.S. Code). Your responses will

be combined with those from other participants to produce summary statistics and reports.

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of 

information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this voluntary 

survey is 1850-0803. The time required to complete this survey is estimated to average 20 minutes per response, 

including the time to review instructions, gather the data needed, and complete and review the survey. If you have 

any comments concerning the accuracy of the time estimate, suggestions for improving this survey, or any 

comments or concerns regarding the status of your individual submission of this survey, please write to: Andrew 

Zukerberg, National Center for Education Statistics, National Household Education Surveys (NHES), 1990 K Street, 

NW, Washington, DC 20006. You may send email to NHES@census.gov.

Instructions

◆ In response to the survey you answered earlier, we recorded that the

child/youth listed below attends school. If this child is homeschooled

instead of attending public or private school, or if this child has not yet

started kindergarten, please call us at the toll-free number below so we

can be sure you received the correct survey.

◆ These questions should be filled in by a parent or guardian who knows

about:

Please answer all the survey questions thinking about this child or youth.

◆ To answer a question, simply mark the box that best represents your

answer.

◆ Please use a black or blue pen, if available, to complete this survey.

◆ If this questionnaire has been sent to the wrong household or the

child/youth listed above does not live here, please call to let us know.

◆ Our toll-free number is 1-888-840-8353.

X

24542029

§9W5>¤
NHES-42BC

3

1. What is this child’s current grade or year

of school?

If this child is not assigned a specific grade,

mark or write the grade he/she would be in

at a school with regular grades.

Full-day kindergarten

2. Some parents decide to educate their children 

at home rather than send them to public or 

private school. Is this child being schooled at 

home instead of at school for at least some 

classes or subjects?

grade (1 through 12)

Partial-day kindergarten

4. Is it his/her regularly assigned school?

3. What type of school does this child

attend?

Private, Catholic

Private, religious

but not Catholic

Private, not religious

Public school

GO TO question 6

5. Is this school a charter school?

6. Did you move to your current

neighborhood so that this child could

attend his/her current school?

7. Does your public school district let you

choose which public school you want

this child to attend?

This may include applying to a magnet

program in a public school, transferring to

another public school within the district, or

transferring to a public school outside of the

district.

Don’t know

8. Did you consider other schools for this

child?

GO TO question 10

9. In deciding between schools, did you

seek information on the performance of

the schools you were considering, like

test scores, dropout rates, and so on?

10. Is the school this child attends your first

choice, that is, the school you wanted

most for him/her to attend?

11. Since the beginning of this school year,

has this child been in the same school?

No

Yes - For how many hours each week does 

this child attend a public or privates chool?

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

Thank you for your help with the

previous survey your household

completed.

Child has not yet started kindergarten

Answer all the survey questions

thinking about the child listed

below:

Please STOP now and call

1-888-840-8353 so we can verify that

you received the correct survey.

No

Yes

▼

▼

{

1. Child’s Schooling

24542037

§9W5F¤

hours per week
NHES-42BC

4

Strongly agree

month (1 through 12)

Agree

No

Yes

GO TO question 20

12. In which month did this child start at

his/her current school this school year?

13. How much do you agree or disagree with

the following statement:

"This child enjoys school."

Disagree

Strongly disagree

Mostly A’s

Mostly B’s

14. Please tell us about this child’s grades

during this school year. Overall, across all

subjects, what grades does this child get?

Mostly C’s

Mostly D’s or lower

This child’s school does not

give these grades

No

Yes

15. Is he/she currently enrolled in Advanced

Placement (AP) classes?

Does not apply

16. Since the beginning of this school year,

how many times have any of this child’s

teachers or school staff contacted your

household about...

Write ’0’ if none.

a. Behavior problems this child

is having in school . . . . . . . . . . . .

b. Problems this child is having

with school work . . . . . . . . . . . . .

c. Very good behavior . . . . . . . . . . .

d. Very good school work. . . . . . . . .

Number

days

17. Since the beginning of this school year,

how many days has this child been

absent from school?

18. Since starting kindergarten, has this

child repeated any grades?

19. What grade or grades did he/she repeat?

Mark all that apply.

Kindergarten

First grade

Second grade

Third grade

Fourth grade

Elementary through Middle school

Fifth grade

Sixth grade

Seventh grade

Eighth grade

Ninth grade - freshman

Tenth grade - sophomore

Eleventh grade - junior

Twelfth grade - senior

High school

X

Continue with question 20 on the 

next page.

▼

24542045

§9W5N¤
NHES-42BC

5

No

Yes

GO TO question 27

20. Has this child ever had the following

experiences?

Mark ONE box for each item below.

Complete less than a high school diploma

Graduate from high school

Attend a vocational or technical school

after high school

Attend two or more years of college

Earn a bachelor’s degree

No

Yes

25. Is there a charge or fee for that

instruction?

a. An out-of-school suspension . .

b. An in-school suspension not

counting detentions. . . . . . . . .

c. Been expelled from school. . . .

23. Some students take school-related

courses over the Internet. Is this child

receiving any instruction this way?

24. Is that instruction provided by any of the

following places?

Mark all that apply.

Your local public school

A charter school

Another public school

A private school

A college, community college, or

university

Someplace else — Specify:

21. How far do you expect this child to go in

his/her education?

Mark ONE only.

Earn a graduate degree or professional

degree beyond a bachelor’s

Excellent

Above average

Average

Below average

Failing

22. How would you describe his/her work at

school?

Mark ONE only.

No Yes

▼ ▼

X

X

X

X

24542052

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26. What is the main reason this child took schoolrelated courses over the internet?

 ONE only.

Extra-credit

Tutoring

School did not offer the class or subject

Mark X

Other — Specify:

Improve basic reading, writing, math or 

science skills

To earn college credit

Due to an illness or health condition
NHES-42BC

6

27. Since the beginning of this school year,

has any adult in this child’s household

done any of the following things at this

child’s school?

Mark ONE box for each item below.

a. Attended a school or class

event, such as a play, dance,

sports event, or science fair. . .

b. Served as a volunteer in

this child’s classroom or

elsewhere in the school

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

c. Attended a general school

meeting, for example, an

open house, or a back-toschool night

. . . . . .

d. Attended a meeting of the

parent-teacher organization

or association. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

e. Gone to a regularly

scheduled parent-teacher

conference with this child’s

teacher

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

f. Participated in fundraising

for the school

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

g. Served on a school

committee

. . . . . . . . .

h. Met with a guidance

counselor in person

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

28. During this school year, how many times

has any adult in the household gone to

meetings or participated in activities at

this child’s school?

number of times

29. During this school year, has your family

received any of the following:

a. Notes or emails specifically about this

child from his/her teachers or school

administrators?

b. Newsletters, memos, emails, or

notices addressed to all parents?

c. Phone calls specifically about this

child from his/her teachers or school

administrators?

Very well

Just okay

30. How well has this child’s school been

doing the following things during this

school year?

a. Letting you know how this child is

doing in school between report cards.

Not very well

Does not do it at all

b. Providing information about how to

help this child with homework.

Very well

Just okay

Not very well

Does not do it at all

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No Yes

▼ ▼

2. Families & School

X

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NHES-42BC

7

31. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you

with each of the following:

a. The school this child attends this year?

b. The teachers this child has this year?

c. The academic standards of the school?

d. The order and discipline at the school?

e. The way that school staff interacts

with parents?

c. Providing information about why this

child is placed in particular groups or

classes.

Very well

Just okay

Not very well

Does not do it at all

d. Providing information on your

expected role at this child’s school.

Very well

Just okay

Not very well

Does not do it at all

e. Providing information on how to help

this child plan for college or vocational

school.

Very well

Just okay

Not very well

Does not do it at all

Does not apply

Very satisfied

Somewhat satisfied

Somewhat dissatisfied

Very dissatisfied

Very satisfied

Somewhat satisfied

Somewhat dissatisfied

Very dissatisfied

Very satisfied

Somewhat satisfied

Somewhat dissatisfied

Very dissatisfied

Very satisfied

Somewhat satisfied

Somewhat dissatisfied

Very dissatisfied

Very satisfied

Somewhat satisfied

Somewhat dissatisfied

Very dissatisfied

24542078

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NHES-42BC

8

number of hours per week

Less than once a week

1 to 2 days a week

3 to 4 days a week

5 or more days a week

GO TO section 4,

question 39

37. How often does any adult in your

household check to see that this child’s

homework is done?

32. How often does this child do homework

at home, at an after-school program, or

somewhere else outside of school?

Never

Child does not have

homework

33. In an average week, how many hours

does this child spend on homework

outside of school?

The amount is about right

It’s too much

It’s too little

34. How do you feel about the amount of

homework this child is assigned?

35. How does this child feel about the

amount of homework he or she is

assigned?

36. Is there a place in your home that is set

aside for this child to do homework?

The amount is about right

It’s too much

It’s too little

No

Yes

Child does not do homework at home

Never

Rarely

Sometimes

Always

38. During this school year, about how many

days in an average week does anyone in

your household help this child with

his/her homework?

Less than once a week

1 to 2 days a week

3 to 4 days a week

5 or more days a week

Never

3. Homework

{

Continue with section 4, question 39, on 

the next page.

▼

24542086

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NHES-42BC

9

39. In the past week, has anyone in your

family done the following things with

this child?

Mark ONE box for each item below.

a. Told him/her a story (Do not

include reading to this child.). .

b. Done activities like arts and

crafts, coloring, painting,

pasting, or using clay

. . . . . . . .

c. Played board games or did

puzzles with him/her

. . . . . . . .

d. Worked on a project like

building, making, or fixing

something. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

e. Played sports, active games,

or exercised together

. . . . . . . . . . . .

f. Discussed with him/her how

to manage time

g. Talked with him/her about

the family’s history or ethnic

heritage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

40. In the past week, how many days has

your family eaten the evening meal

together?

Write ‘0’ if none.

41. In the past month, has anyone in your

family done the following things with

this child?

Mark ONE box for each item below.

days

a. Visited a library . . . . . . . . . . . .

b. Visited a bookstore

. . . . . . . . . . . .

c. Gone to a play, concert, or

other live show

. . . . . . . . .

d. Visited an art gallery,

museum, or historical site . . . .

e. Visited a zoo or aquarium

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

f. Attended an event sponsored

by a community, religious, or

ethnic group

g. Attended an athletic or

sporting event outside of

school in which this child

was not a player . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . .

. . . .

No Yes

No Yes

▼ ▼

▼ ▼

4. Family Activities

Continue with section 5, question 42, on 

the next page.

▼

X

X

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NHES-42BC

10

42. In general, how would you describe this

child’s health?

Excellent

44. Did you mark yes to any condition in

question 42?

46. Are these services provided by any of

the following sources?

Mark ONE box for each item below.

a. Your local school district . . . . .

b. A state or local health or

social service agency

. . . . . . . . .

c. A doctor, clinic, or other

health care provider

. . . . . . . .

43. Has a health or education professional

told you that this child has any of the

following conditions?

Mark ONE box for each item below.

a. A specific learning disability. . .

b. An intellectual disability

(mental retardation)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

c. A speech or language

impairment

. . . . . . . . .

d. A serious emotional

disturbance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

e. Deafness or another hearing

impairment

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

f. Blindness or another visual

impairment not corrected

with glasses

g. An orthopedic impairment. . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Very good

Good

Fair

Poor

h. Autism. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

i. Pervasive Developmental

Disorder (PDD)

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

j. Attention Deficit Disorder,

ADD or ADHD

k. A developmental delay. . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

l. Traumatic brain injury . . . . . . .

m. Another health impairment

lasting 6 months or more. . . . .

GO TO question 52

45. Is this child receiving services for his/her

condition?

GO TO question 50

47. Are any of these services provided

through an Individualized Education

Program (IEP)?

GO TO question 50

48. Did any adult in your household work

with the service provider or school to

develop or change this child’s IEP?

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No Yes

No Yes

▼ ▼

▼ ▼

5. Child’s Health

X

X

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NHES-42BC

11

50. Is this child currently enrolled in any

special education classes or services?

51. Does this child’s condition interfere with

his/her ability to do any of the following

things?

Mark

a. Learn

b. Participate in sports, clubs,

or other organized activities

c. Attend school on a regular

basis

. . .

No

Yes

49. During this school year, how satisfied or

dissatisfied have you been with the

following aspects of this child’s IEP?

Very satisfied

Somewhat satisfied

a. The service provider’s or school’s

communication with your family?

Somewhat dissatisfied

Very dissatisfied

b. The child’s special needs teacher or

therapist?

Does not apply

Very satisfied

Somewhat satisfied

Somewhat dissatisfied

Very dissatisfied

Does not apply

Very satisfied

Somewhat satisfied

c. The service provider’s or school’s

ability to accommodate this child’s

special needs?

Somewhat dissatisfied

Very dissatisfied

d. The service provider’s or school’s

commitment to help this child learn?

Does not apply

Very satisfied

Somewhat satisfied

Somewhat dissatisfied

Very dissatisfied

Does not apply

X ONE box for each item below.

d. Make friends . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

No Yes

▼ ▼

Continue with section 6, question 52, on the 

next page.

▼

24542110

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NHES-42BC

12

6. Child’s Background

Continue with section 7 on the

next page.

▼

age English and another language equally

57. For this school year, does this child

usually live at this address or another

address (for example, because of a joint

custody arrangement)?

Do not include vacation properties.

52. In what month and year was this child

born?

One of the 50 United States or the

District of Columbia

One of the U.S. territories

(Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa,

U.S. Virgin Islands, or Mariana Islands)

Another country

53. Where was this child born?

56. What is this child’s race? You may mark

one or more races.

55. Is this child of Spanish, Hispanic, or

Latino origin?

American Indian or Alaska Native

Asian

Black or African American

No

Yes

Child usually lives at this address

Child usually lives at another address

58. What language does this child speak

most at home?

Mark ONE only.

Child is not able to

speak

English

Spanish

A language other than English or Spanish

English and Spanish equally

month year

/

GO TO question 55

54. How old was this child when he/she first

moved to the 50 United States or the

District of Columbia?

Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander

White

59. Is this child currently enrolled in

English as a second language, bilingual

education, or an English immersion

program?

No

Yes

GO TO section 7

X

24542128

§9W6=¤

{

Child lived at at this address and another 

address for an equal amount of time 
NHES-42BC

13

PARENT 1 LIVING IN HOUSEHOLD 

Answer questions 59 to 78 about yourself if you are

the child’s parent or guardian. 

If you are not the child’s parent or guardian, answer

questions 59 to 78 about one of this child’s parents

or guardians living in the household.

English GO TO question 70

Spanish

A language other than English or Spanish

English and Spanish equally

English and another language equally

67. How difficult is it for this person to

participate in activities at this child’s

school because he/she speaks a

language other than English?

Biological parent

Adoptive parent

Stepparent

Foster parent

Grandparent

60. Is this parent or guardian the child’s...

Other guardian

Male

Female

61. Is this person male or female?

65. What was the first language this parent

or guardian learned to speak?

Mark ONE only.

English GO TO question 70

Spanish

A language other than English or Spanish

English and Spanish equally

English and another language equally

66. What language does this person speak

most at home now?

Mark ONE only.

Very difficult

Somewhat difficult

Not at all difficult

68. Does the school have interpreters who

speak this person’s native language for

meetings or parent-teacher conferences?

No

Yes

69. Does the school have written materials,

such as newsletters or school notices,

that are translated into this person’s

native language?

No

Yes

7. Child’s Family

X

X

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62. Whatisthisperson’scurrentmarital

status?

Mark X ONE only.

Now married

Widowed

Divorced

Separated

Never married

63.

Is this person currently living with a

boyfriendsgirlfriend or partner in this

household

No

Yes

Is this person currently in a registered

domestic partnership or civil union?

No

Yes

GO TO question 65

64.
NHES-42BC

14

Some graduate or professional

education, but no degree

74. What is the highest grade or level of

school that this parent or guardian

completed?

Mark ONE only.

72. Is this person of Spanish, Hispanic, or

Latino origin?

American Indian or Alaska Native

Asian

Black or African American

No

Yes

8th grade or less

High school, but no diploma

High school diploma or equivalent (GED)

Vocational diploma after high school

Some college, but no degree

Associate’s degree (AA, AS)

Bachelor’s degree (BA, BS)

71. How old was this person when he or she

first moved to the 50 United States or

the District of Columbia?

Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander

White

75. Is he or she currently attending or

enrolled in a school, college, university,

or adult learning center, or receiving

vocational education or job training?

No

Yes

70. Where was this parent or guardian born?

73. What is this person’s race? You may

mark one or more races.

Professional degree beyond

bachelor’s degree (MD, DDS, JD, LLB)

Master’s degree (MA, MS)

Doctorate degree (PhD, EdD)

X

age

One of the 50 United States or the

District of Columbia

One of the U.S. territories

(Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa,

U.S. Virgin Islands, or Mariana Islands)

Another country

GO TO question 72

Continue with question 76 on the 

next page.

▼

24542144

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NHES-42BC

15

No

Yes

GO TO question 105

82. Is there a second parent or guardian

living in this household?

PARENT 2 LIVING IN HOUSEHOLD 

Answer questions 79 to 99 about a second parent or

guardian living in the household.

Biological parent

Adoptive parent

Stepparent

Foster parent

Grandparent

83. Is this person the child’s...

Other guardian

Male

Female

84. Is this person male or female?

78. (If unemployed or out of work) Has this

parent or guardian been actively looking

for work in the past 4 weeks?

No

Yes

79. In the past 12 months, how many

months (if any) has this person worked

for pay or income?

76. Which of the following best describes this

person’s employment status?

Mark ONE only.

80. How old is this person?

81. How old was this person when he or she

first became a parent to any child?

Retired

Employed for pay or income

Self-employed

Unemployed or

out of work

Full-time student

Stay at home

parent

Disabled or

unable to work

GO TO question 78

GO TO question 79

X

{

77. (If employed or self-employed) About how

many hours per week does he or she

usually work for pay or income, counting

all jobs?

months

GO TO question 79

hours

Don’t know

age

age

24542151

§9W6T¤

85. What is this person’s current marital

status?

Mark X ONE only.

Now married

Widowed

Divorced

Separated

Never married

86.

Is this person currently living with a

boyfriend/girlfriend or partner in this

household?

No

Yes

Is this person currently in a registered

domestic partnership or civil union?

No

Yes

GO TO question 88

87.
NHES-42BC

16

English GO TO question 93

Spanish

A language other than English or Spanish

English and Spanish equally

English and another language equally

90. How difficult is it for this person to

participate in activities at this child’s

school because he/she speaks a

language other than English?

88. What was the first language this parent

or guardian learned to speak?

Mark ONE only.

English GO TO question 93

Spanish

A language other than English or Spanish

English and Spanish equally

English and another language equally

89. What language does this person speak

most at home now?

Mark ONE only.

Very difficult

Somewhat difficult

Not at all difficult

91. Does the school have interpreters who

speak this person’s native language for

meetings or parent-teacher conferences?

No

Yes

92. Does the school have written materials,

such as newsletters or school notices,

that are translated into this person’s

native language?

No

Yes

Continue with question 97 on the

next page.

▼

X

X

95. Is this person of Spanish, Hispanic, or

Latino origin?

American Indian or Alaska Native

Asian

Black or African American

No

Yes

94. How old was this person when he or she

first moved to the 50 United States or

the District of Columbia?

Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander

White

93. Where was this parent or guardian born?

96. What is this person’s race? You may

mark one or more races.

age

One of the 50 United States or the

District of Columbia

One of the U.S. territories

(Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa,

U.S. Virgin Islands, or Mariana Islands)

Another country

GO TO question 95

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NHES-42BC

17

Some graduate or professional

education, but no degree

97. What is the highest grade or level of

school that this parent or guardian

completed?

Mark ONE only.

8th grade or less

High school, but no diploma

High school diploma or equivalent (GED)

Vocational diploma after high school

Some college, but no degree

Associate’s degree (AA, AS)

Bachelor’s degree (BA, BS)

98. Is he or she currently attending or

enrolled in a school, college, university,

or adult learning center, or receiving

vocational education or job training?

No

Yes

Professional degree beyond

bachelor’s degree (MD, DDS, JD, LLB)

Master’s degree (MA, MS)

Doctorate degree (PhD, EdD)

Continue with section 8, question 105, on 

the next page.

▼

X

101. (If unemployed or out of work) Has this

parent or guardian been actively looking

for work in the past 4 weeks?

No

Yes

102. In the past 12 months, how many

months (if any) has this person worked

for pay or income?

99. Which of the following best describes this

person’s employment status?

Mark ONE only.

103. How old is this person?

104. How old was this person when he or she

first became a parent to any child?

Retired

Employed for pay or income

Self-employed

Unemployed or

out of work

Full-time student

Stay at home

parent

Disabled or

unable to work

GO TO question 101

GO TO question 102

X

{

100. (If employed or self-employed) About how

many hours per week does he or she

usually work for pay or income, counting

all jobs?

months

GO TO question 102

hours

Don’t know

age

age

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NHES-42BC

18

105. Including yourself, how many total

people live in this household?

people

107. How are you related to this child?

Mark ONE only.

106. Other than the parents or guardians

already reported, how many of the

following people live in the household

with this child?

Example: Brother(s) 2

This child’s...

Brother(s). . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sister(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Aunt(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Uncle(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Grandmother(s) . . . . . . . .

Grandfather(s). . . . . . . . . .

Cousin(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Parent’s girlfriend/

boyfriend/partner . . . . . . .

Other relative(s) . . . . . . . .

Other non-relative(s). . . . .

Write ’0’ if none. 

Number

108. Which language(s) are spoken at home

by the adults in this household?

Mark all that apply.

English

Spanish or Spanish Creole

French (including Patois, Creole, Cajun)

Chinese

Other languages – Specify:

Mother (birth, adoptive, step, or foster)

Father (birth, adoptive, step, or foster)

Aunt

Uncle

Grandmother

Grandfather

Parent’s girlfriend/boyfriend/partner

Other relationship – Specify:

8. Your Household

Continue with question 109 on the

next page.

▼

X

X

24542185

§9W6v¤
NHES-42BC

19

109. In the past 12 months, did your family

ever receive benefits from any of the

following programs?

Mark ONE box for each item below.

a. Temporary Assistance for

Needy Families, or TANF . . . . .

b. Your state welfare or

family assistance program. . . .

c. Women, Infants, and

Children, or WIC . . . . . . . . . . . .

years at this address

112. Is this house...

Mark ONE only.

Owned or being bought by someone

in this household,

Rented by someone in this household, or

$0 to $10,000

$10,001 to $20,000

$20,001 to $30,000

$30,001 to $40,000

$40,001 to $50,000

110. Which category best fits the total

income of all persons in your household

over the past 12 months?

Include your own income.

Include money from jobs or other earnings,

pensions, interest, rent, Social Security

payments, and so on.

No

Yes

Occupied by some other arrangement?

113. Do you have access to the Internet at

this address?

No

Yes

114. Is there at least one telephone inside this

home that is currently working and not a

cell phone?

No

Yes

115. Do you have a working cell phone?

111. How many years have you lived at this

address?

Write ’0’ if less than 1 year.

d. Food Stamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

e. Medicaid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

f. Child Health Insurance

Program (CHIP). . . . . . . . . . . . .

g. Section 8 housing assistance . .

$50,001 to $60,000

$60,001 to $75,000

$75,001 to $100,000

$100,001 to $150,000

$150,001 or more

No Yes

▼ ▼

Continue with question 116 on the

next page.

▼

X

X

24542193

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NHES-42BC

20

116. We would like to identify this child’s school so we can include information about the school

in our study.

Using the list of schools below, mark the box next to the school this child attends.

If this child’s school is not in this list, GO TO question 113.

School Name Address City

▼ ▼ ▼

X

24542201

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NHES-42BC

21

117. To help us identify the school this child attends, write the name and address of this child’s

school in the spaces below.

Please use block or capital letters, for example:

a. School name

If you found and marked this child’s school in the list provided in

question 112, then SKIP this question and return your survey in the

postage-paid envelope. Otherwise, continue with question 113.

b. School street address

c. School city

SC HOO L

d. School state

e. School zip code

Thank you. 

Please return this questionnaire in the

postage-paid envelope provided.

If you have lost the envelope, mail the

completed questionnaire to: 

U.S. Census Bureau

ATTN: DCB 60-A (7198)

1201 E. 10th Street

Jeffersonville, IN 47132-0001

SCHOOL NAME

NUMBER AND STREET ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP

!

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22

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23

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24

Commonly Asked Questions

Q: How did you get my address?

A: Your address was randomly selected from among all of the home addresses in the nation.

It was selected using scientific sampling methods to represent other households in the

United States.

Q: How did you get my child’s name and grade?

A: When you returned the initial National Household Education Survey to us, we randomly

chose one child to ask additional questions about. We are interested in understanding

your child’s experiences with schooling.

Q: Why should I take part in this study? Do I have to do this?

A: You represent thousands of other households like yours, and you cannot be replaced.

Your answers and opinions are very important to the success of this study. You may

choose not to answer any or all questions in this survey. In order for the survey to be

representative, it is important that you complete and return this questionnaire. Those who

do not return the survey will not be represented in key statistics used by policymakers and

researchers.

Q: How will the information I provide be used? Will my privacy be protected?

A: Your responses will be combined with those of others to produce statistical summaries

and reports. Your individual data will not be reported. Your answers may be used only for

statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form for any other

purpose except as required by law (Section 9573, 20 U.S. Code).

Q: I have more than one child in my household. Will I receive additional surveys for

the other children in my household?

A: No, each household will receive a survey for only one child, even if there are multiple

children living in the household. In households with multiple children, one child was

randomly selected to be included in the study.

Q: How will my response help the Department of Education?

A: The Department of Education wants to understand the condition of education in the

United States. This survey is the only way that the Department of Education can learn

about schooling from your perspective. Your responses will be combined with those

from other households to inform educators, policymakers, schools, and universities

about changes in the condition of education in the United States. Reports from past

surveys can be found at www.nces.ed.gov/nhes.

24542243

§9W7L¤

Q: Who is sponsoring this study?

A: The National Center for Education Statistics, within the U.S. Department of Education, is authorized 

to conduct this study (20 USC § 9543). The U.S. Census Bureau is conducting this study on behalf of 

the U.S. Department of Education. This study has been approved by the Office of Management and 

Budget, the office that reviews all federally sponsored surveys. 

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection 

of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this 

voluntary survey is 1850-0803. The average time required to complete this survey is estimated to 

average 20 minutes per response, including the time to review instructions, gather the data needed, 

and complete and review the survey. If you have any comments concerning the accuracy of the time 

estimate, suggestions for improving the survey, or any comments or concerns regarding the status of 

your individual submission of this survey, please write to: Andrew Zukerberg, National Center for 

Education Statistics, National Household Education Surveys (NHES), 1990 K Street NW, Washington, 

DC 20006-5650. You may send email to NHES@census.gov.

Q: What if I have other questions?

A: If you have any questions about the study, you may send e-mail to NHES@census.gov or you may call 

the Census Bureau toll-free at 1-888-840-8353
C.5 Parent and Family Involvement in Education Survey for Homeschooled Students
OMB No. 1850-0768: Approval Expires 11/30/2014

NHES-31AC 

A Survey About Homeschooling in America

Thank you for helping us with this

survey. Based on the information

we received from your household

in your last survey, we’re asking

you to complete this final step.

The National Household Education Survey

24352015

§9D50¤

Conducted by

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE 

Economics and Statistics Administration 

U.S. Census Bureau 

(02/16/2012)
NHES-31AC

2

We are authorized to collect this information by Section 9543, 20 U.S. Code. You do not have to

provide the information requested. However, the information you provide will help the Department

of Education’s ongoing efforts to learn more about the educational experiences of children and

families. There are no penalties should you choose not to participate in this study. Your answers

may be used only for statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form

for any other purpose except as required by law (Section 9573, 20 U.S. Code). Your responses will

be combined with those from other participants to produce summary statistics and reports.

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of 

information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this voluntary 

survey is 1850-0803. The time required to complete this survey is estimated to average 20 minutes per response, 

including the time to review instructions, gather the data needed, and complete and review the survey. If you have 

any comments concerning the accuracy of the time estimate, suggestions for improving this survey, or any 

comments or concerns regarding the status of your individual submission of this survey, please write to: Andrew 

Zukerberg, National Center for Education Statistics, National Household Education Surveys (NHES), 1990 K Street, 

NW, Washington, DC 20006. You may send email to NHES@census.gov.

Instructions

◆ In response to the survey you answered earlier, we recorded that the

child/youth listed below is currently homeschooled for at least some classes.

If this child attends public or private school instead of homeschooling, or is

not homeschooled for kindergarten through 12th grade or equivalent, please

call us at the toll-free number below so we can be sure you received the

correct survey.

◆ These questions should be filled in by a parent or guardian who knows

about:

Please answer all the survey questions thinking about this child or youth.

◆ To answer a question, simply mark the box that best represents your

answer.

◆ Please use a black or blue pen, if available, to complete this survey.

◆ If this questionnaire has been sent to the wrong household or the

child/youth listed above does not live here, please call to let us know.

◆ Our toll-free number is 1-888-840-8353.

X

24352023

§9D58¤
Thank you for your help with the

previous survey your household

completed.

NHES-31AC

3

1. Who is the person that mainly provides

this child’s home instruction?

Brother/sister

Mother

2. Is any of this child’s home instruction

provided by a private tutor or teacher?

Answer all the survey questions

thinking about the child listed

below:

5. What type of school(s) does this child

attend?

Mark all that apply.

No

Yes

Public school (K - 12)

Private school (K - 12)

Grandparent

Father

Another person

3. Is any of this child’s instruction provided

by a local homeschooling group or co-op?

No

Yes

4. Does this child attend a public or private

school or a college or university for

instruction?

Yes

No GO TO question 7

College, community college, or university

6. How many hours each week does this child

usually go to a school for instruction? Do

not include time spent in extracurricular

activities.

hours

▼▼

X

Who is that?

24352031

§9D5@¤

1. Child’s Homeschooling
NHES-31AC

4

11. Thinking about sources of curriculum or

books you use to homeschool this child,

please tell us about all the sources that

apply to you.

Since September, have you used

materials from...

Mark ONE box for each item below.

7. What grade or year would this child be in

if he/she was attending school?

Mark ONE only.

Kindergarten

Grade (1 through 12)

8. These next questions ask you to estimate

the amount of time you homeschool this

child.

a. How many days each week is this

child homeschooled?

days each week

b. About how many total hours each

week is he/she homeschooled?

hours per week

9. Since September, has this child

participated in activities with other

children who are homeschooled?

No

Yes

10. Which of the following statements best

describes the teaching style used to

homeschool this child?

Mark ONE only.

We strictly follow a formal curriculum.

We mostly follow a formal curriculum, 

but also use informal learning (i.e. childled learning, "teaching moments").

We mostly use informal learning, but

sometimes use a formal curriculum.

We always use informal learning, and

never follow a formal curriculum.

a. A public library?. . . . . . . . . . . .

b. A homeschooling catalog,

publisher, or individual who

specializes in homeschooling

materials?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

c. Another educational

publisher?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

d. A homeschooling

organization? . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

e. A church, synagogue, or

other religious organization?

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

f. Your local public school or

school district?

g. A private school?. . . . . . . . . . .

. .

. . . . . . . . . .

h. A bookstore or other store

(including online)?

i. Websites, excluding retailers? .

12. In the past year, have you or another

family member taken any courses, either

online or in-person, to help you prepare

your child’s home instruction?

No

Yes, both online and in-person

Yes, online only

Yes, in-person only

X

X

X

No Yes

▼ ▼

24352049

§9D5R¤

j. Other source — Specify: . .
NHES-31AC

5

13. Some homeschooled children take

courses over the Internet taught by

people outside the household. Is this

child receiving any instruction this way?

No

Yes

15. Is there a charge or fee for that

instruction?

Your local public school

A charter school

Another public school

A private school

A college, community college, or

university

Someplace else — Specify:

14. Is that instruction provided by any of the

following places?

Mark all that apply.

No

Yes

GO TO question 16

16. Thinking about typical grade levels, for

which grades was this child schooled at

home for at least some classes or

subjects?

Mark all that apply.

Include the current year.

Kindergarten (Including transitional K and 

Pre-first grade)

First grade

Second grade

Third grade

Fourth grade

Elementary through Middle School

Fifth grade

Sixth grade

Seventh grade

Eighth grade

Ninth grade - freshman

Tenth grade - sophomore

Eleventh grade - junior

Twelfth grade - senior

High School

Offered by my state

X

X

24352056

§9D5Y¤
NHES-31AC

6

17. There are many different reasons that

parents choose to homeschool their

children. Did your family choose to

homeschool this child because:

Mark ONE box for each item below.

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

. .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . .

. . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . .

. . .

. . .

18. Of the reasons your family chose to

homeschool this child, which one would

you say is the most important to you?

Write the letter from question 17 for the most

important reason you chose to homeschool

your child.

letter from question 17

Complete less than a high school diploma

Graduate from high school

Attend a vocational or technical school

after high school

Attend two or more years of college

Earn a bachelor’s degree

19. How far do you expect this child to go in

his/her education?

Mark ONE only.

Earn a graduate degree or professional

degree beyond a bachelor’s

X

X

No Yes

▼ ▼

24352064

§9D5a¤

a. You are concerned about the

school environment, such as

safety, drugs, or negative

peer pressure?

b. You are dissatisfied with the

academic instruction at other

schools?

c. You prefer to teach this child

at home so that you can

provide religious instruction?

d. You prefer to teach this child

at home so that you can

provide moral instruction?

e. This child has a physical or

mental health problem that

has lasted six months or

more?

f. This child has a temporary

illness that prevents him/her

from going to school?

g. This child has other special

needs that you feel the

school can’t or won’t meet?

h. You are interested in a

nontraditional approach

to children’s education?

i. You have another reason for

homeschooling your child? 

Specify:
NHES-31AC

7

20. Thinking about all years this child has

been homeschooled, which of the

following subject areas has this child

been taught during his or her home

instruction?

Mark all that apply.

Art

Music

Basic algebra (Algebra I)

Advanced algebra (Algebra II)

Geometry

Calculus

Probability

Scientific inquiry or experiments

Earth sciences or geology

Biology

Chemistry or physics

Geography

English or literature

Computer science (e.g., computer 

programming)

Social science, history, social studies

Foreign language

X

24352072

§9D5i¤

Continue with section 2, question 21

on the next page.

▼
NHES-31AC

8

21. In the past week, has anyone in your

family done the following things with

this child?

Mark ONE box for each item below.

a. Told him/her a story (Do not

include reading to this child.). .

b. Done activities like arts and

crafts, coloring, painting,

pasting, or using clay

. . . . . . . .

c. Played board games or did

puzzles with him/her

. . . . . . . .

d. Worked on a project like

building, making, or fixing

something. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

e. Played sports, active games,

or exercised together

. . . . . . . . . . . .

f. Discussed with him/her how

to manage time

g. Talked with him/her about

the family’s history or ethnic

heritage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

22. In the past week, how many days has

your family eaten the evening meal

together?

Write ‘0’ if none.

23. In the past month, has anyone in your

family done the following things with

this child?

Mark ONE box for each item below.

days

a. Visited a library . . . . . . . . . . . .

b. Visited a bookstore

. . . . . . . . . . . .

c. Gone to a play, concert, or

other live show

. . . . . . . . .

d. Visited an art gallery,

museum, or historical site . . . .

e. Visited a zoo or aquarium

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

f. Attended an event sponsored

by a community, religious, or

ethnic group

g. Attended an athletic or

sporting event outside of

school in which this child

was not a player . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . .

. . . .

No GO TO question 26

Yes

24. Does your family participate in the

activities or meetings of a local

homeschooling association, co-op,

or other local homeschool group?

25. Since September, how many times

has your family gone to meetings or

participated in the activities of a local

homeschooling association, co-op, or

other local homeschool group?

number of times

26. Is your family or someone in your

household a member of a national

homeschooling organization?

No

Yes

X

No Yes

▼ ▼

X

No Yes

▼ ▼

24352080

§9D5q¤

2. Family Activities
NHES-31AC

9

27. In general, how would you describe this

child’s health?

Excellent

29. Did you mark yes to any condition in

question 28?

31. Are these services provided by any of

the following sources?

Mark ONE box for each item below.

a. Your local school district . . . . .

b. A state or local health or

social service agency

. . . . . . . . .

c. A doctor, clinic, or other

health care provider

. . . . . . . .

28. Has a health or education professional

told you that this child has any of the

following conditions?

Mark ONE box for each item below.

a. A specific learning disability. . .

b. An intellectual disability

(mental retardation)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

c. A speech or language

impairment

. . . . . . . . .

d. A serious emotional

disturbance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

e. Deafness or another hearing

impairment

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

f. Blindness or another visual

impairment not corrected

with glasses

g. An orthopedic impairment. . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Very good

Good

Fair

Poor

h. Autism. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

i. Pervasive Developmental

Disorder (PDD)

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

j. Attention Deficit Disorder,

ADD or ADHD

k. A developmental delay. . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

l. Traumatic brain injury . . . . . . .

m. Another health impairment

lasting 6 months or more. . . . .

GO TO question 37

30. Is this child receiving services for his/her

condition?

GO TO question 35

32. Are any of these services provided

through an Individualized Education

Program (IEP)?

GO TO question 35

33. Did any adult in your household work

with the service provider or school to

develop or change this child’s IEP?

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

X

X

No Yes

▼ ▼

No Yes

▼ ▼

24352098

§9D5¥¤

3. Child’s Health
NHES-31AC

10

35. Is this child currently enrolled in any

special education classes or services?

36. Does this child’s condition interfere with

his/her ability to do any of the following

things?

Mark

a. Learn

b. Participate in sports, clubs,

or other organized activities

c. Attend school on a regular

basis

. . .

No

Yes

34. During this school year, how satisfied or

dissatisfied have you been with the

following aspects of this child’s IEP?

Very satisfied

Somewhat satisfied

a. The service provider’s or school’s

communication with your family?

Somewhat dissatisfied

Very dissatisfied

b. The child’s special needs teacher or

therapist?

Does not apply

Very satisfied

Somewhat satisfied

Somewhat dissatisfied

Very dissatisfied

Does not apply

Very satisfied

Somewhat satisfied

c. The service provider’s or school’s

ability to accommodate this child’s

special needs?

Somewhat dissatisfied

Very dissatisfied

d. The service provider’s or school’s

commitment to help this child learn?

Does not apply

Very satisfied

Somewhat satisfied

Somewhat dissatisfied

Very dissatisfied

Does not apply

X ONE box for each item below.

d. Make friends . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

No Yes

▼ ▼

24352106

§9D6’¤

Continue with section 4, question 37

on the next page.

▼
NHES-31AC

11

age English and another language equally

42. For this school year, does this child

usually live at this address or another

address (for example, because of a joint

custody arrangement)?

Do not include vacation properties.

37. In what month and year was this child

born?

One of the 50 United States or the

District of Columbia

One of the U.S. territories

(Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa,

U.S. Virgin Islands, or Mariana Islands)

Another country

38. Where was this child born?

41. What is this child’s race? You may mark

one or more races.

40. Is this child of Spanish, Hispanic, or

Latino origin?

American Indian or Alaska Native

Asian

Black or African American

No

Yes

Child usually lives at this address

Child usually lives at another address

43. What language does this child speak

most at home?

Mark ONE only.

Child is not able to

speak

English

Spanish

A language other than English or Spanish

English and Spanish equally

month year

/

39. How old was this child when he/she first

moved to the 50 United States or the

District of Columbia?

41b. What is this child’s sex?

Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander

White

Male

Female

44. Is this child currently enrolled in

English as a second language, bilingual

education, or an English immersion

program?

No

Yes

GO TO section 5

X

24352114

§9D6/¤

Continue with section 5, on the 

next page.

▼

GO TO question 40

4. Child’s Background

Child lived at at this address and another 

address for an equal amount of time 

{
NHES-31AC

12

PARENT 1 LIVING IN HOUSEHOLD 

Answer questions 45 to 61 about yourself if you are

the child’s parent or guardian. 

If you are not the child’s parent or guardian, answer

questions 45 to 61 about one of this child’s parents

or guardians living in the household.

English GO TO question 52

Spanish

A language other than English or Spanish

English and Spanish equally

English and another language equally Biological parent

Adoptive parent

Stepparent

Foster parent

Grandparent

45. Is this parent or guardian the child’s...

Other guardian

Male

Female

46. Is this person male or female?

50. What was the first language this parent

or guardian learned to speak?

Mark ONE only.

English

Spanish

A language other than English or Spanish

English and Spanish equally

English and another language equally

51. What language does this person speak

most at home now?

Mark ONE only.

age

54. Is this person of Spanish, Hispanic, or

Latino origin?

No

Yes

53.

How old was this person when he or she

first moved to the 50 United States or

the District of Columbia?

52. Where was this parent or guardian born?

X

X

One of the 50 United States or the

District of Columbia

One of the U.S. territories

(Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa,

U.S. Virgin Islands, or Mariana Islands)

Another country

GO TO question 54

24352122

§9D67¤

5. Child’s Family

47. What is this person’s current marital

status?

ONE only.

Now married

Widowed

Divorced

Separated

Never married

Mark X

48.

Is this person currently living with a

boyfriend/girlfriend or partner in this

household?

Yes

49. Is this person currently in a registered

domestic partnership or civil union?

No

Yes

No

GO TO question 50
NHES-31AC

13

Some graduate or professional

education, but no degree

56.

What is the highest grade or level of

school that this parent or guardian

completed?

Mark ONE only.

American Indian or Alaska Native

Asian

Black or African American

8th grade or less

High school, but no diploma

High school diploma or equivalent (GED)

Vocational diploma after high school

Some college, but no degree

Associate’s degree (AA, AS)

Bachelor’s degree (BA, BS)

Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander

White

57.

Is he or she currently attending or

enrolled in a school, college, university,

or adult learning center, or receiving

vocational education or job training?

No

Yes

55.

What is this person’s race? You may

mark one or more races.

Retired

58.

Which of the following best describes

this person’s employment status?

Mark ONE only.

Employed for pay or income

Self-employed

Unemployed or

out of work

Full-time student

Stay at home

parent

Professional degree beyond

bachelor’s degree (MD, DDS, JD, LLB)

Master’s degree (MA, MS)

Doctorate degree (PhD, EdD)

Disabled or

unable to work

GO TO question 60

GO TO question 61

months

60.

(If unemployed or out of work) Has this

parent or guardian been actively looking

for work in the past 4 weeks?

No

Yes

GO TO question 61

61.

In the past 12 months, how many

months (if any) has this person worked

for pay or income?

59.

(If employed or self-employed) About how

many hours per week does he or she

usually work for pay or income, counting

all jobs?

hours

X

{ X

24352130

§9D6?¤
NHES-31AC

14

Don’t know

No

Yes

GO TO question 84

64.

Is there a second parent or guardian

living in this household? age

62.

How old is this person?

63.

How old was this person when he or she

first became a parent to any child?

PARENT 2 LIVING IN HOUSEHOLD 

Answer questions 62 to 79 about a second parent or

guardian living in the household.

Biological parent

Adoptive parent

Stepparent

Foster parent

Grandparent

65.

Is this person the child’s...

Other guardian

Male

Female

66.

Is this person male or female?

age

24352148

§9D6Q¤

67. Whatisthisperson’scurrentmarital

status?

ONE only.

Now married

Widowed

Divorced

Separated

Never married

Mark X

68. Isthispersoncurrentlylivingwitha

boyfriend/girlfriend or partner in this

household?

Yes

Is this person currently in a registered

domestic partnership or civil union?

No

Yes

No

GO TO question 70

69.
NHES-31AC

15

English GO TO question 72

Spanish

A language other than English or Spanish

English and Spanish equally

English and another language equally

70.

What was the first language this parent

or guardian learned to speak?

Mark ONE only.

English

Spanish

A language other than English or Spanish

English and Spanish equally

English and another language equally

71.

What language does this person speak

most at home now?

Mark ONE only.

age

74.

Is this person of Spanish, Hispanic, or

Latino origin?

American Indian or Alaska Native

Asian

Black or African American

No

Yes

73.

How old was this person when he or she

first moved to the 50 United States or

the District of Columbia?

Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander

White

72.

Where was this parent or guardian born?

75.

What is this person’s race? You may

mark one or more races.

Some graduate or professional

education, but no degree

76.

What is the highest grade or level of

school that this parent or guardian

completed?

Mark ONE only.

8th grade or less

High school, but no diploma

High school diploma or equivalent (GED)

Vocational diploma after high school

Some college, but no degree

Associate’s degree (AA, AS)

Bachelor’s degree (BA, BS)

Professional degree beyond

bachelor’s degree (MD, DDS, JD, LLB)

Master’s degree (MA, MS)

Doctorate degree (PhD, EdD)

X

X

X

One of the 50 United States or the

District of Columbia

One of the U.S. territories

(Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa,

U.S. Virgin Islands, or Mariana Islands)

Another country

GO TO question 74

24352155

§9D6X¤
NHES-31AC

16

77.

Is he or she currently attending or

enrolled in a school, college, university,

or adult learning center, or receiving

vocational education or job training?

No

Yes

78.

Which of the following best describes

this person’s employment status?

Mark ONE only.

months

80.

(If unemployed or out of work) Has this

parent or guardian been actively looking

for work in the past 4 weeks?

No

Yes

81.

In the past 12 months, how many

months (if any) has this person worked

for pay or income?

Don’t know

79.

(If employed or self-employed) About how

many hours per week does he or she

usually work for pay or income, counting

all jobs?

age

82.

How old is this person?

83.

How old was this person when he or she

first became a parent to any child?

X

Retired

Employed for pay or income

Self-employed

Unemployed or

out of work

Full-time student

Stay at home

parent

Disabled or

unable to work

GO TO question 80

GO TO question 810

GO TO question 80

hours

{ age

24352163

§9D6‘¤

Continue with section 6, question 84 on 

the next page.

▼
NHES-31AC

17

84.

Including yourself, how many total

people live in this household?

people

86.

How are you related to this child?

Mark ONE only.

85.

Other than the parents or guardians

already reported, how many of the

following people live in the household

with this child?

Example: Brother(s) 2

This child’s...

Brother(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sister(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Aunt(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Uncle(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Grandmother(s) . . . . . . . .

Grandfather(s). . . . . . . . . .

Cousin(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Parent’s girlfriend/

boyfriend/partner . . . . . . .

Other relative(s) . . . . . . . .

Other non-relative(s). . . . .

Write ’0’ if none. 

Number

87.

Which language(s) are spoken at home

by the adults in this household?

Mark all that apply.

English

Spanish or Spanish Creole

French (including Patois, Creole, Cajun)

Chinese

Other languages – Specify:

Mother (birth, adoptive, step, or foster)

Father (birth, adoptive, step, or foster)

Aunt

Uncle

Grandmother

Grandfather

Parent’s girlfriend/boyfriend/partner

Other relationship – Specify:

X

X

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Continue with question 88 on the 

next page.

▼

6. Your Household
NHES-31AC

18

88.

In the past 12 months, did your family

ever receive benefits from any of the

following programs?

Mark ONE box for each item below.

a. Temporary Assistance for

Needy Families, or TANF . . . . .

b. Your state welfare or

family assistance program. . . .

c. Women, Infants, and

Children, or WIC . . . . . . . . . . . .

91.

Is this house...

Mark ONE only.

Owned or being bought by someone

in this household,

Rented by someone in this household, or

Occupied by some other arrangement?

$0 to $10,000

$10,001 to $20,000

$20,001 to $30,000

$30,001 to $40,000

$40,001 to $50,000

89.

Which category best fits the total

income of all persons in your household

over the past 12 months?

Include your own income.

Include money from jobs or other earnings,

pensions, interest, rent, Social Security

payments, and so on.

No

Yes

92. Do you have access to the Internet at

this address?

No

Yes

93.

Is there at least one telephone inside this

home that is currently working and not a

cell phone?

No

Yes

94.

Do you have a working cell phone?

90.

How many years have you lived at this

address?

Write ’0’ if less than 1 year.

d. Food Stamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

e. Medicaid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

f. Child Health Insurance

Program (CHIP). . . . . . . . . . . . .

g. Section 8 housing assistance . .

$50,001 to $60,000

$60,001 to $75,000

$75,001 to $100,000

$100,001 to $150,000

$150,001 or more

years at this address

X

X

No Yes

▼ ▼

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NHES-31AC

19

Thank you. 

Please return this questionnaire in the postage-paid envelope provided. If you have lost 

the envelope, mail the completed questionnaire to: 

U.S. Census Bureau

ATTN: DCB 60-A (7198)

1201 E. 10th Street

Jeffersonville, IN 47132-0001

24352197

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NHES-31AC

20

Commonly Asked Questions

24352205

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Q: How did you get my address?

A: Your address was randomly selected from among all of the home addresses in the nation.

It was selected using scientific sampling methods to represent other households in the

United States.

Q: How did you get my child’s name and age?

A: When you returned the initial National Household Education Survey to us, we randomly

chose one child to ask additional questions about. We are interested in understanding

your child’s experiences with homeschooling.

Q: Why should I take part in this study? Do I have to do this?

A: You represent thousands of other households like yours, and you cannot be replaced.

Your answers and opinions are very important to the success of this study. You may

choose not to answer any or all questions in this survey. In order for the survey to be

representative, it is important that you complete and return this questionnaire. Those who

do not return the survey will not be represented in key statistics used by policymakers and

researchers.

Q: How will the information I provide be used? Will my privacy be protected?

A: Your responses will be combined with those of others to produce statistical summaries

and reports. Your individual data will not be reported. Your answers may be used only for

statistical purposes and may not be disclosed, or used, in identifiable form for any other

purpose except as required by law (Section 9573, 20 U.S. Code).

Q: I have more than one child in my household. Will I receive additional surveys for

the other children in my household?

A: No, each household will receive a survey for only one child, even if there are multiple

children living in the household. In households with multiple children, one child was

randomly selected to be included in the study.

Q: How will my response help the Department of Education?

A: The Department of Education wants to understand the condition of education in the

United States. This survey is the only way that the Department of Education can learn

about homeschooling from your perspective. It is the Department of Education’s primary

source of information on homeschooling in America. Your responses will be combined

with those from other households to inform educators, policymakers, schools, and

universities about changes in the condition of education in the United States. Reports

from past surveys can be found at www.nces.ed.gov/nhes.

Q: Who is sponsoring this study?

A: The National Center for Education Statistics, within the U.S. Department of Education, is authorized 

to conduct this study (20 USC § 9543). The U.S. Census Bureau is conducting this study on behalf of the 

U.S. Department of Education. This study has been approved by the Office of Management and Budget, 

the office that reviews all federally sponsored surveys. 

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of 

information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this voluntary 

survey is 1850-0803. The average time required to complete this survey is estimated to average 20

minutes per response, including the time to review instructions, gather the data needed, and complete and 

review the survey. If you have any comments concerning the accuracy of the time estimate, suggestions for 

improving the survey, or any comments or concerns regarding the status of your individual submission of 

this survey, please write to: Andrew Zukerberg, National Center for Education Statistics, National 

Household Education Surveys (NHES), 1990 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20006-5650. You may send 

email to NHES@census.gov.

Q: What if I have other questions?

A: If you have any questions about the study, you may send e-mail to NHES@census.gov or you may call 

the Census Bureau toll-free at 1-888-840-8353