Improving School Climate: Perceptions of Stakeholders Implementing a Commercial School Improvement Program

• In Event: Improving School Culture

Abstract

A suburban school district in a Midwestern state desired to reduce bullying and discipline problems, increase academic achievement and improve relationships. In order to accomplish these goals, the district purchased a school climate improvement program from a national vendor. The qualitative study investigates the results of the first year of implementation in terms of efficacy, fidelity of implementation and confidence in the ability of the program to make needed changes in the school climate. Findings from stakeholder perceptions indicated a high degree of satisfaction in terms of professional development and the program’s focus on improving teacher relationships with colleagues and students. Participants also noted an improvement in student’s abilities and willingness to self-regulate classroom behaviors and address directly bullying behaviors.

Authors

• Kristin G. Sherwood, Wichita State University

• Tiffinie Irving, Wichita State University

• Alicia Thompson, Wichita State University

• Amber Anderson

• Brian Cordel

• Patrick Simon