Positive School Climate: What It Looks Like and How It Happens

• In Event: 63.026 - Dispositions of School Leaders: Impact on School Climate

Abstract

Youth development and student learning are intrinsically linked to school climate, and improving school climate must be a part of any turnaround or improvement process. This analysis of five case studies was conducted to determine how schools in a high poverty district improved school climate. Data were collected through observations, focus groups, and interviews. Findings suggest that schools experience improved climate when: principals take a systemic approach supported by one-on-one interactions; teachers work together and feel heard by the principal; adults engage students in discourse when misbehaviors occur; teachers and students are challenged to grow professionally, socially, and academically; budgetary decisions reflect school member values; and students and teachers have a sense of belongingness.

Authors

• Tami Kopischke Smith, Goucher College

• Faith Connolly, Johns Hopkins University