What is the SHARP Survey
"The SHARP survey is the most comprehensive source of information on the challenges and opportunities our youth face—because the information comes from youth themselves. Good data helps us identify risks and develop policies and interventions that help all Utah families and youth feel supported, safe, and able to thrive. We appreciate having parents and school districts actively involved in this survey."
The SHARP survey is administered by the Utah Department of Health and Human Services and is given at school to 6th through 12th-grade students in the spring. It’s anonymous and asks questions about physical, social, and mental health, substance abuse, social connections, basic demographics, risky and harmful behaviors — and what protects children from these things. The questions your child gets depend on the grade they are in. Sixth graders do not get the same survey as older students. It’s taken during school and takes about 30-45 minutes. You can find the survey questions at https://sharp.utah.gov
Can parents and students opt out of participating in SHARP?
Yes. Parent consent is—and has always been—required. Only students who have parent permission are allowed to take the survey. Parents are asked to opt in or opt out of the survey each August during back-to-school registration. They can also reevaluate and opt out by contacting their school office. Only students who have parent permission are allowed to take the survey. Students also get to choose whether to take the SHARP survey. They can choose to skip any questions they don’t understand or don’t want to answer. Students are not rewarded for taking the survey—or penalized if they don’t. Students are given this information before they decide to take SHARP.
Why is the SHARP important?
The SHARP survey has provided insight into things affecting children for over 20 years. It helps parents know what to talk about with their kids, like vaping. It also helps school administrators, teachers, parents, public health, and community leaders work together to help Utah students. Parents can find information about SHARP findings at: https://sumh.utah.gov/data-reports/sharp-survey/
Is the SHARP survey confidential?
All responses are anonymous and confidential. No information is collected that could identify your child or your family. Results are reported at a local level and available to parents online. Results are also shared with school districts, health departments, and researchers.
Where can I find the survey questions?
There are different sets of questions used in the SHARP survey. Some questions for 6th graders have been modified and changed to better meet younger students’ abilities and needs, based on feedback from parents, school administrators, and public health professionals.
Your Voice Matters
We want to remind you that your voice and choice matter regarding the SHARP Survey. If you have any concerns or questions about your child’s participation, you can update or change your opt-in decision at any time by contacting your child’s school, principal, or the SHARP administrator.
